Dive Into the Depths of Space!

In a mesmerizing new snapshot from the Hubble Space Telescope, we get a glimpse of the captivating spiral galaxy Messier 77, affectionately nicknamed the 'Squid Galaxy.' Located a staggering 45 million light-years away in the constellation Cetus, which translates to 'The Whale,' this cosmic wonder stirs the imagination.

A Journey Through Time and Space

Originally cataloged by the legendary French astronomer Charles Messier, the galaxy was discovered in 1780 by his fellow comet hunter, Pierre Méchain. Back in the day, these astronomers believed they were identifying various comet-like nebulas, unaware they were truly observing separate galaxies light-years away.

For over a century, the true nature of these 'spiral nebulae' remained a mystery. The Squid Galaxy's core shines intensely bright, surrounded by a hazy cloud—a vision that could easily be mistaken for a star wrapped in a nebula.

From Mystery to Marvel: The Origins of the Name