NGC 3169: A Cosmic Dance of Gravitational Tides

Image Title: NGC 3169: A Cosmic Dance of Gravitational Tides

Copyright: Rafael Sampaio

Date image was taken: February 26, 2025

Location: El Sauce, Chile

Image Description and Details: Located approximately 75 million light-years away in the constellation Sextans, NGC 3169 is a striking spiral galaxy undergoing a gravitational interaction with its neighbor, NGC 3166. This cosmic encounter has resulted in dramatic distortions of its spiral structure, stretching out delicate tidal streams and stellar plumes that hint at the immense forces at play.

One of the most captivating features of NGC 3169 is its sweeping tidal tails, remnants of its ongoing interaction. These elongated structures tell the story of how galaxies evolve and reshape over time, driven by their mutual gravitational pull. The dark dust lanes, illuminated by the soft glow of starlight, weave through the galaxy’s core, adding to its rich complexity.

Adding to its intrigue, NGC 3169 also hosts an active galactic nucleus, believed to house a supermassive black hole. This powerhouse emits radiation across multiple wavelengths, from radio to X-rays, making it a fascinating subject for study.

This image captures the raw beauty of galactic evolution in action, showcasing the fine balance between structure and chaos in the cosmos.

Total Exposure 62h 5'

Equipment Details: Telescope: Planewave CDK 17
Mount: Planewave L550
Camera: Moravian C3-61000EC Pro
Filters: Chroma LRGB

Name: Rafael Sampaio

Website or Facebook Profile: http://www.instagram.com/rafael.astrofotografia