NASA releases Hubble image taken in new pointing mode

NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has resumed capturing new images using an alternative operating mode after a brief hiatus caused by a gyro issue. Now operating with just one gyro, the telescope returned to science operations on June 14th. In one of its first observations since the transition, Hubble captured an image of NGC 1546, a nearby galaxy located in the constellation Dorado. This was reported by SSPDaily.

The image showcases the galaxy's noteworthy features, including dust lanes seen from a slightly elevated perspective, illuminated by the galaxy's core. The dust particles absorb light from the core, giving them a rusty-brown appearance. The core itself emits a yellowish glow, indicative of an older population of stars. Amidst the dust, vibrant blue regions of active star formation twinkle. Additionally, several background galaxies, including an edge-on spiral next to NGC 1546, are also visible in the image.

Utilizing Hubble's Wide Field Camera 3, this image forms part of a collaborative observation program between Hubble, NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array. The combined data from these telescopes enables scientists to gain a comprehensive, multiwavelength perspective on the formation and evolution of stars.

The successful execution of capturing this stunning galaxy image highlights the reliability of Hubble's new pointing mode. With this improved stability, the telescope is expected to conduct a majority of its scientific observations going forward, solidifying its vital role in advancing our understanding of the cosmos.

Dr. Jennifer Wiseman, senior project scientist for Hubble at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, expressed enthusiasm, stating, "Hubble's new image of a spectacular galaxy demonstrates the full success of our new, more stable pointing mode for the telescope. We're poised now for many years of discovery ahead, and we'll be looking at everything from our solar system to exoplanets to distant galaxies. Hubble plays a powerful role in NASA's astronomical toolkit."

Having launched in 1990, Hubble has been diligently exploring the universe for over three decades, recently commemorating its 34th anniversary. Its long-standing mission continues to propel our understanding of the cosmos, opening doors to new realms of knowledge.