Hubble Chases a Small Stellar Galaxy in the Hunting Dog
Quiet Stargazing

Hubble Chases a Small Stellar Galaxy in the Hunting Dog

Explore the profound quiet of the universe through NASA's high-resolution archives. Perfect for your stargazing journey.

Plan ExpeditionView Gear
Scroll to Top
Celestial Log

NASA Observation

On a clear evening in April of 1789, the renowned astronomer William Herschel continued his unrelenting survey of the night sky, hunting for new cosmic objects — and found cause to celebrate! He spotted this bright spiral galaxy, named NGC 4707, lurking in the constellation of Canes Venatici or The Hunting Dog. NGC 4707 lies roughly 22 million light-years from Earth. Over two centuries later, the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope is able to "chase down" and view the same galaxy in far greater detail than Herschel could, allowing us to appreciate the intricacies and characteristics of NGC 4707 as never before. This striking image comprises observations from Hubble’s Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS), one of a handful of high-resolution instruments currently aboard the space telescope. Herschel himself reportedly described NGC 4707 as a “small, stellar” galaxy; while it is classified as a spiral (type Sm), its overall shape, center, and spiral arms are very loose and undefined, and its central bulge is either very small or non-existent. It instead appears as a rough sprinkling of stars and bright flashes of blue on a dark canvas. The blue smudges seen across the frame highlight regions of recent or ongoing star formation, with newborn stars glowing in bright, intense shades of cyan and turquoise. Image credit: ESA/Hubble & NASA
Knowledge Base

Scientific Background

This particular celestial object, Hubble Chases a Small Stellar Galaxy in the Hunting Dog, was captured by NASA's deep space observatories. While its specific historical mythology remains a mystery, objects of this type are crucial for our understanding of cosmic evolution and stellar life cycles.

To observe phenomena similar to this, we recommend using high-contrast filters and a motorized equatorial mount.

Expedition

Experience the serenity of the cosmos

Discover nebula-themed journey sites designed for peaceful observation.

Essentials

Stargazing Gear

Professional Deep Space Telescope
Knowledge Base

Stargazer FAQ

Are the colors in this nebula image real?

NASA often uses 'false color' techniques. Scientists map invisible wavelengths (like infrared) or specific gases to visible colors (red, green, blue) to highlight the nebula's structural details.

Can I see this nebula with a standard telescope?

While some bright nebulas are visible with entry-level telescopes, capturing these stunning details usually requires deep-sky astrophotography equipment and long exposures.

© 2026 Look At The Stars!. All rights reserved.Buy Me a Coffee at ko-fi.comDisclosure: Look At The Stars is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.