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Magellanic Clouds
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Magellanic Clouds
Magellanic Clouds. Optical image of the Magellanic Clouds, satellite galaxies of our Milky Way. North is at top. The Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) is the fuzzy patch at centre left. The Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) is at lower right. The LMC is the nearest galaxy to the Milky Way, lying around 170, 000 light years away. The SMC is slightly more distant at around 195, 000 light years. The bright star at upper left is Canopus (Alpha Carinae), the second brightest star in the sky. At upper right is the bright star Achernar (Alpha Eridani), the ninth brightest star in the sky. This area is best viewed in late spring in the southern hemisphere
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Media ID 6442921
© ECKHARD SLAWIK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Cosmology Galactic Galaxies Galaxy Large Magellanic Cloud Night Sky Optical Satellites Small Southern Star Field Stars Canopus
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the mesmerizing beauty of the Magellanic Clouds, two satellite galaxies that orbit our very own Milky Way. With the North positioned at the top, this optical image unveils a breathtaking celestial scene. At the center left, we are drawn to the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), a hazy patch that stands out amidst the vastness of space. Slightly below and to the right lies its companion, the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC). These galaxies hold a special place in our cosmic neighborhood as they are among our closest neighbors, located approximately 170,000 and 195,000 light years away respectively. The enchantment continues as we gaze upon two prominent stars adorning this galactic vista. The bright star Canopus (Alpha Carinae) graces us with its presence at upper left - it is truly a sight to behold being only second in brightness across all constellations. Meanwhile, Achernar (Alpha Eridani), shining brightly at upper right captures our attention as well; it ranks ninth on the list of brightest stars visible from Earth. For those fortunate enough to witness this extraordinary spectacle firsthand during late spring in the southern hemisphere, this area becomes an ethereal playground for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts alike. This awe-inspiring print by Science Photo Library serves as a reminder of just how magnificent and wondrous our universe truly is.
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