Centaurus A
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{{Galaxy | name = Centaurus A | image = Image:CentaurusA.jpg Centaurus A (NGC 5128) | epoch = J2000.0 | type = SA0ab pec. | ra = 13h 25.5m 29s | dec = -43° 01' 00" | dist_ly = 15 million ly | appmag_v = +6.6 | size_v = 18' × 14' | constellation name = Centaurus | radius_ly = 138,000 ly | absmag_v = 13.3 | notes = closest active galaxy | names = NGC 5128, Arp 153 }}
Centaurus A (also known as NGC 5128) is a lenticular galaxy about 15 million light-years away in the constellation Centaurus. It is the closest active galaxy to Earth, being a radio galaxy. In 1986 a supernova (SN 1986G) was observed in Centaurus A.
A relativistic jet which extracts energy from the vicinity of what is believed to be a supermassive black hole at the center of the galaxy is responsible for emissions in the X-ray and radio wavelengths. By taking radio observations of the jet separated by a decade, astronomers have determined that the inner parts of the jet are moving at about one half of the speed of light. X-rays are produced farther out as the jet collides with surrounding gases resulting in the creation of highly energetic particles.
This galaxy does not fall under Hubble Classification as it is both a spiral and an elliptical galaxy and may be the result of a galactic collisions. As observed in other starburst galaxies, this collision is responsible for the intense burst of star formation. Using the Spitzer Space Telescope scientists confirm that Centaurus A is going through a galaxy collision by devouring a spiral galaxy. Other minor studies confirm that Centaurus A rotates clockwise from our point of view.
On March 14, 1998 the Hubble Space Telescope offered a close-up view of a turbulent firestorm of star birth along a nearly edge of the galaxy. Centaurus A is part of the M83 group of galaxies.
Contents |
Other images
 The jet |
 Disk covering the core by HST |
 The full disk by SST |
See also
References
- STScI. Hubble Provides Multiple Views of How to Feed a Black Hole. Press release: Space Telescope Science Institute. March 14, 1998.
- Chandra X-Ray Observatory Photo Album Centaurus A Jet