On June 30, 2026, NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory unveiled a stunning new view of the galaxy NGC 4736, commonly referred to as Messier 94. This spiral galaxy features a luminous inner structure known as the starburst ring, where star formation occurs at an accelerated pace, likely driven by gas dynamics within its distinct elliptical form.
The image showcases various wavelengths of X-rays (depicted in red, orange, and blue) collected by Chandra, layered over visible-light photographs (displayed in red, green, and blue) taken by astrophotographers through ground-based telescopes.
Watch and experience this breathtaking image with sound.
Image credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/SAO. Optics: Brian Brennan and Remi Lacasse. Image processing: NASA/CXC/SAO/L. Frattare and K. Arcand
Source: www.nasa.gov