Astronomers Describe New Evidence of 'Inconvenient' Galaxy

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In this color image of NGC4622 note the strong inner counter-clockwise outward winding single arm and the strong outer clockwise outward winding pair of arms. Fourier analysis of the image reveals a hidden inner counter-clockwise pair. No matter whic ...
In this color image of NGC4622, note the strong inner counter-clockwise outward winding single arm and the strong outer clockwise outward winding pair of arms. Fourier analysis of the image reveals a hidden inner counter-clockwise pair. No matter which way the disk turns, one of the pairs must wind outward in the direction of turning.

Discovery of two new components within a puzzling spiral galaxy confirm it must have a pair of arms winding in the opposite direction from most galaxies, according to results being presented today to the American Astronomical Society meeting in Austin, Texas. Presenting the results are Drs. Gene Byrd and Ron Buta, from The University of Alabama; Tarsh Freeman, Bevill Community College; and Dr. Sethanne Howard, retired from the U.S. Naval Observatory.


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