This captivating image captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope showcases the resplendent spiral galaxy NGC 4689, nestled 54 million light-years away in the constellation Coma Berenices. Notably, Coma Berenices stands as the sole constellation officially designated by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) in honor of Queen Berenice II of Egypt, with the term ‘coma’ alluding to her illustrious hair, thereby positioning NGC 4689 amidst the celestial locks of a queen. Legend has it that during Berenice’s era, her court astronomer believed that a celestial deity had immortalized a strand of her hair, hence inspiring the constellation’s name, Coma Berenices1.
NGC 4689: A Galaxy in Context
. Amidst the cosmic expanse, NGC 4689 holds a notable position in contemporary astronomy, despite its less regal connotation. Situated 54 million light-years distant, NGC 4689’s proximity within the universe’s vastness renders it a relatively close neighbor among galaxies. This striking image amalgamates data from observations conducted in 2019 and 2024, as part of comprehensive programs scrutinizing numerous ‘nearby’ galaxies. Particularly noteworthy is the 2024 observation program, which underscores the synergistic relationship between the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes. While Webb’s infrared observations promise revolutionary insights into galactic evolution, Hubble’s ultraviolet and visible light data, as showcased here, provide invaluable supplementary information. Notably, Hubble’s observations offer precise delineations of nearby galaxies’ stellar populations, pivotal in unraveling their evolutionary trajectories. Thus, the collaborative efforts of Hubble and Webb contribute significantly to our comprehension of galaxy formation and evolution, with NGC 4689 serving as a pertinent subject in this quest for knowledge. Notably, Hubble had previously featured an image of this galaxy in 2020, underscoring its significance in astronomical exploration2.