NASA · Space

Messier 33: The Triangulum Galaxy

The Triangulum Galaxy, also known as Messier 33 or the Pinwheel Galaxy, is a prominent spiral galaxy located in the small, northern constellation Triangulum.

M33 spans over 50,000 light-years in diameter, making it the third-largest galaxy in the Local Group, following the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) and the Milky Way. It is situated approximately 3 million light-years from the Milky Way and is believed to be a satellite galaxy of Andromeda.

This telescopic image highlights M33's blue star clusters and pinkish star-forming regions within its loosely wound spiral arms. The prominent NGC 604, a large star-forming region, is visible near the 5 o'clock position relative to the galaxy's center.

Similar to M31, M33's well-measured variable stars have been crucial in establishing the universe's distance scale, serving as a cosmic yardstick for astronomers.

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