Image: Hubble observes jellyfish galaxy JO201

A “jellyfish galaxy” with trailing tentacles of stars hangs in inky blackness on this picture from the NASA/ESA Hubble Area Telescope. As jellyfish galaxies transfer via intergalactic space, fuel is slowly stripped away forming trails that resemble tendrils illuminated by clumps of star formation. These blue tendrils are seen beneath the core of this galaxy, giving it a jellyfish-like look. This specific jellyfish galaxy—often called JO201—lies within the constellation Cetus, which is called after a sea monster from historic Greek mythology. This sea-monster-themed constellation provides to the nautical theme of this picture.

The tendrils of jellyfish galaxies lengthen past the brilliant disk of the galaxy’s core. This specific commentary comes from an investigation into the sizes, plenty, and ages of clumps of star formation within the tendrils of jellyfish galaxies. Astronomers hope this may present a greater understanding of the connection between ram-pressure stripping—the method that creates the tendrils of jellyfish galaxies—and star formation.

Hubble’s Extensive Area Digital camera 3 (WFC3) captured this galactic seascape. A flexible instrument that captures photos at ultraviolet, infrared, and visible wavelengths, WFC3 is the supply of a few of Hubble’s most spectacular photos.