This stunning image above shows spiral galaxy NGC 2903. The image was captured using
Interestingly, Hubble observed this galaxy andearlier, back in 2001, when neither ACS nor WFC3 were yet installed on it. The 2021 image is captured at a higher resolution, which means NGC 2903 is visible in finer detail than in the 2001 image below:
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ACS and WFC2 together cover a wide rangeultraviolet, optical and infrared wavelengths, which means that the 2021 image also has better wavelength coverage compared to its 20-year-old predecessor. The 2001 image was taken with the Wide-Angle Planetary Camera 2 (WFPC2), which was a Hubble instrument from 1993 to 2009 and was later replaced by the WFC3.
Hubble has a long and fascinating historyservicing missions with live crews, which were carried out to correct deficiencies of the telescope, update its technical systems and replace old instruments with new ones. One of the most remarkable features of Hubble – its incredible durability.
Comparison of images of NGC 2903 dated 2001 and2021 – both pictures are remarkable for their time – highlights the value of such a robust, accessible platform in space that can reliably collect data not only year after year, but decade after decade.
Source: scitechdaily
Illustrations: ESA/Hubble & NASA, L. Ho, J. Lee and the PHANGS-HST Team 2021 / ESA & NASA 2001
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