Positioned within the constellation Leo, spiral galaxy NGC 3370 has lengthy been a favourite amongst astronomers. NGC 3370 is a part of a small galaxy group that additionally different galaxies studied by the Hubble Area Telescope. Finding out these galaxies collectively helps astronomers perceive how galaxies work together, evolve and affect each other over cosmic timescales.
What’s it?
The place is it?
Spiral galaxy NGC 3370 is positioned 90 million mild years away within the Leo constellation.
Why is it wonderful?
NGC 3370 is dwelling to 2 sorts of celestial landmarks which have helped astronomers chart cosmic distances with precision: Cepheid variable stars and Kind la supernovas. Cepheids are pulsating stars whose brightness rises and falls in predictable cycles, the longer the interval of pulsation, the extra luminous they’re. In the meantime, Kind la supernovas happen when a white dwarf star undergoes a thermonuclear explosion, reaching practically the identical peak brightness every time.
By evaluating how vibrant these objects seem from Earth with how vibrant they really are, astronomers can calculate their distances, and in flip, measure how shortly the universe is increasing. Collectively, these “commonplace candles” type the spine of the cosmic distance ladder, a framework that has formed our fashionable understanding of cosmic scale and movement.
Need to be taught extra?
You’ll be able to be taught extra in regards to the Hubble Area Telescope and galaxy formation.
