Object Analysis

The Phantom Galaxy (Messier 74) is a grand design spiral galaxy in the constellation Pisces. It is located about 32 million light-years away. It is often called the "Phantom" because its low surface brightness makes it notoriously difficult for amateur astronomers to spot against the background sky glow.

M74 is a textbook example of a grand design spiral, meaning its spiral arms are prominent and clearly defined. It contains about 100 billion stars. The arms are dotted with clusters of young, blue stars and glowing pink H II regions.

In 2002 and 2003, two supernovae were identified in this galaxy, and a third was seen in 2013. This high rate of supernovae indicates a healthy population of massive, short-lived stars that enrich the galaxy with heavy elements upon their death.