NGC 772
NGC 772 is a spiral galaxy located approximately 130 million light-years away in the constellation Aries. It is classified as a SA(s)b galaxy, indicating a spiral galaxy with tightly wound arms and a bright, well-defined nucleus. NGC 772 is notable for its prominent and distorted spiral arm structure, influenced by its interaction with the smaller, companion galaxy NGC 770.
Characteristics:
- Morphology: SA(s)b spiral galaxy
- Distance: Approximately 130 million light-years
- Constellation: Aries
- Notable Features: Distorted spiral arms, interaction with NGC 770, presence of numerous HII regions (ionized hydrogen regions indicating active star formation) within its spiral arms.
Interactions:
The gravitational interaction between NGC 772 and the elliptical galaxy NGC 770 has significantly affected the structure of NGC 772. This interaction is believed to be responsible for the prominent and extended spiral arm extending from the galaxy. The tidal forces exerted by NGC 770 have stretched and distorted the arm, triggering enhanced star formation within it.
Observations:
NGC 772 has been observed across the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to X-rays. These observations have provided valuable insights into the galaxy's structure, composition, and star formation activity. Astronomers continue to study NGC 772 to better understand the dynamics of interacting galaxies and the processes that drive galaxy evolution.