NGC 1512: a barred spiral galaxy with a double ring structure

NGC 1512 is a barred spiral galaxy approximately 38 million light-years away from Earth in the constellation Horologium. The galaxy displays a double ring structure, with a (nuclear) ring around the galactic nucleus and an (inner) further out in the main disk.

The core of the barred spiral galaxy NGC 1512 is unique for its stunning 2,400-light-year-wide circle of infant star clusters, called a "circumnuclear" starburst ring. Starbursts are episodes of vigorous star formation.

Gravitational tidal forces of NGC 1512 are influencing nearby dwarf lenticular galaxy NGC 1510 (blue spot, bottom right of NGC 1512). Interaction between these two galaxies has triggered star formation activity in the outskirts of the disc and enhanced the tidal distortion in the arms of the NGC 1512.

Image was acquired with CHI-1 (Planewave CDK24). Data from 5 one-clicks.

Total integration time: 400 minutes

10 subs of 600s with each filter (LRGB).