Needle Galaxy
The Needle Galaxy (NGC 4565): A Cosmic Edge-On Marvel
Full resolution on flickr.
Scientific Classification Designation: NGC 4565, Caldwell 38 Type: Spiral Galaxy Location: Coma Berenices constellation Distance: Approximately 30-50 million light-years from Earth
Astronomical Significance
NGC 4565 provides astronomers with a unique perspective of galactic structure due to its edge-on orientation relative to Earth. This positioning allows scientists to study:
- The vertical distribution of galactic matter
- The structure of galactic bulges and disks
- Interstellar dust distribution in spiral galaxies
- Dark matter halos through rotational dynamics
Technical Imaging Details
Total Integration: 29.83 hours (107,400 seconds) Subframes: 387 individual exposures combined Equipment:
- Telescope: Planewave CDK 12.5", focal length 2521mm, F/8.0 focal ratio
- Camera: FLI Proline 16803
- Processing Software: PixInsight
- Observation Site: Nerpio, Spain (known for excellent astronomical seeing conditions)
Educational Value
This image serves as an excellent example of how modern amateur astrophotography can contribute to scientific understanding. The long integration time and high-quality equipment reveal detailed structure in the galaxy’s disk and bulge, making it valuable for both research and public education about galactic morphology.
