M109 | NGC 3992 | Spiral Galaxy | Ursa Major | 83,500,000 Light Years Away
Messier 109 is a barred spiral galaxy located in the constellation Ursa Major. Discovered by Pierre Méchain in 1781 and later included in Charles Messier’s catalog, it is situated approximately 83 million light-years away from Earth. With a diameter of about 120,000 light-years, Messier 109 showcases well-defined spiral arms and a bright central bar.
The central bar of Messier 109 contributes to its classification as a barred spiral galaxy, a structure common in the universe. The galaxy’s spiral arms contain regions of active star formation, evident in the presence of young, bright stars. Observations of Messier 109 provide astronomers with valuable data on the dynamics of barred spiral galaxies, the distribution of stellar populations, and the mechanisms influencing star formation within these cosmic structures.
Messier 109 is a member of the Ursa Major I Galaxy Group, a collection of galaxies in the same cosmic neighborhood. Its position within this galactic group makes it an interesting subject for studies exploring the interactions and gravitational influences shaping galaxies within clusters. The study of Messier 109 contributes to our broader understanding of galactic evolution, offering insights into the diverse processes that govern the formation and development of barred spiral galaxies within the vast cosmic tapestry.