Title
The Andromeda Galaxy
Caption
The Andromeda Galaxy, M31, is a spiral galaxy a mere 2.5 million light-years away. Two space-based observatories have combined to produce this intriguing composite image of Andromeda, at wavelengths outside the visible spectrum. The view follows the locations of this galaxy's once and future stars. In reddish hues, image data from the large Herschel infrared observatory traces enormous lanes of dust, warmed by stars, sweeping along Andromeda's spiral arms. The dust, in conjunction with the galaxy's interstellar gas, comprises the raw material for future star formation.
Date
20th century
Credit line
Photo12/Ann Ronan Picture Library
Reference
ARP15A02_103
License type
Rights managed
Available size
50,5Mb (1,9Mb) / 16,3in x 12,0in / 4901 x 3600 (300dpi)