NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Celestial Birthday Celebration

A new image is presented at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum during a celebration of the 15th anniversary of the Hubble Space Telesope's launch on April 25. This photo of the Whirlpool Galaxy showcases its classic features, from curving arms where newborn stars reside, to the yellowish central core that serves as home for older stars.

Slhouetted in the foreground is Bruce Margon, Associate Director for Science at the Space Telescope Science Institute.

Photo Credit: NASA/Renee Bouchard