The Triangulum Galaxy
The Triangulum Galaxy, also known as M33, is a spiral galaxy approximately 2.73 million light-years from Earth. It’s part of the Local Group, a galaxy cluster that also includes the Milky Way and the Andromeda Galaxy. M33 is the third-largest galaxy in the Local Group and is known for its spiral arms and an abundance of gas and dust, indicating active star formation. The image captured, through meticulous astrophotography, highlights the vibrant life of this nearby galaxy, showcasing the cosmic beauty that exists so far from our own celestial home.
In capturing this cosmic spectacle, an intricate setup of specialized equipment was utilized. Over several clear November 2021 nights, 99 six-minute exposures were taken with a HaO filter, alongside 49 three-minute exposures using a wide bandwidth UVIR filter. These images were meticulously recorded with a ZWO 533i MC color camera, paired with a high-precision Sky-Watcher 120ED EvoStar telescope mounted on a HEQ-5. To ensure sharpness and clarity, the telescope was guided by a ZWO 290MM camera. The accumulated data from these sessions was then masterfully combined to produce this stunning portrayal of M33, a snapshot of the galaxy’s enduring grandeur.