NGC 708 facts for kids
NGC 708 is a giant elliptical galaxy located in the Andromeda constellation. It's about 223 million light-years away from our own galaxy, the Milky Way. Imagine how far that is!
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What is NGC 708?
NGC 708 is a type of galaxy called an elliptical galaxy. Unlike spiral galaxies, which have arms, elliptical galaxies are shaped more like a sphere or a football. They often contain older stars and have less gas and dust for new stars to form.
Where is NGC 708 Located?
This amazing galaxy is found in the constellation of Andromeda. You might know Andromeda because it's home to the famous Andromeda Galaxy, which is our closest large galaxy neighbor. NGC 708 is much farther away than the Andromeda Galaxy.
How Far Away is NGC 708?
NGC 708 is about 223 million light-years from Earth. A light-year is the distance light travels in one year. Light moves incredibly fast, so 223 million light-years is an enormous distance! It means the light we see from NGC 708 today actually left the galaxy 223 million years ago.
Who Discovered NGC 708?
NGC 708 was discovered by a famous astronomer named William Herschel in 1786. Herschel was a very important figure in astronomy. He also discovered the planet Uranus and two of its moons.
What Kind of Galaxy is NGC 708?
NGC 708 is not just an elliptical galaxy; it's also known as a Seyfert galaxy and a radio galaxy.
- Seyfert Galaxy: This means it has a very bright, active center. Scientists believe this bright center is powered by a supermassive black hole that is actively pulling in gas and dust. As the material falls into the black hole, it heats up and glows brightly.
- Radio Galaxy: This means it gives off strong radio waves. These radio waves are often caused by powerful jets of particles shooting out from the supermassive black hole at the galaxy's center.
Images for kids
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NGC 708
