NGC 1792 is characterized as a tempestuous and exceptionally active spiral galaxy situated within the southern celestial sphere, specifically in the constellation Columba.
This Hubble image shows the active spiral galaxy NGC 1792. Image credit: NASA / ESA / Hubble / D. Thilker / F. Belfiore / J. Lee / PHANGS-HST Team.
NGC 1792 is positioned at an approximate distance of 36.4 million light-years from our planet, located in the southern constellation Columba, nearly bordering the constellation Caelum.
This celestial entity, also identified by the designations AGC 24019 or LEDA 16709, was initially documented by the esteemed Scottish astronomer James Dunlop on October 4, 1826.
The visual presentation of NGC 1792 is notably irregular, a consequence of the uneven distribution of dust particles across its disc.
This galaxy exhibits a profound abundance of neutral hydrogen gas and is engaged in a vigorous process of stellar genesis.
“NGC 1792 is equally compelling to astronomical observers as its visually disordered appearance might suggest,” remarked the astronomers associated with the Hubble mission in a formal statement.
“Categorized as a starburst galaxy, it functions as a prodigious center for stellar formation, featuring spiral arms densely populated with regions where stars are actively being born.”
“Indeed, its luminosity is surprisingly high relative to its overall mass,” they further elaborated.
“The galaxy is in close proximity to a more massive neighbor, NGC 1808, and it is theorized that the powerful gravitational interplay between these two entities has agitated the sequestered gas reservoirs within this particular galaxy.”
“The outcome is an intense surge of star formation, predominantly concentrated on the side experiencing a more pronounced gravitational influence.”
“It represents an ideal subject for researchers aiming to elucidate the intricate relationships involving gas dynamics, stellar clusters, and supernova events within galactic environments.”
In the year 2020, astronomers utilized Hubble’s Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3) instrument to conduct observations of NGC 1792.
The recently acquired imagery incorporates supplementary WFC3 data gathered throughout 2025, thereby furnishing a more profound perspective into the dynamic astrophysical phenomena occurring within the galaxy.
“Luminous red features tracing the spiral arms are indicative of what are termed H-alpha emissions originating from dense nebulae composed of hydrogen molecules,” stated the astronomers.
“Stars originate from within these gaseous clouds and radiate intensely with ultraviolet emissions.”
“These nascent stars proceed to ionize the surrounding gas, prompting it to emit a highly specific red wavelength of light—a definitive indicator of newly formed stars.”
