Figure: NGC 253

NGC 253 is a large magnitude 7 galaxy in the constellation of Sculptor. It has a remarkable amount of structure in both the core and arms, and the complexity of the dust lanes is such that it is difficult to discern a spiral pattern. It is estimated to be approximately 10 million light years distant and is one of the closest galaxies beyond our local group.
Text credit: Copyright © 2002 of Philip Perkins http://www.astrocruise.com/n253.htm

Image Credit: Tom Michalik (Randolph-Macon Woman's College, Lynchburg,
VA 24503, Phone: 434-947-8489, Fax: 434-947-8138, e-mail: tmichalik@rmwc.edu)