This superb wide-field image reveals a fascinating concentration of galaxies located in the constellation Canes Venatici, approximately 60 million light-years from Earth. Among the celestial protagonists of this deep field are NGC 4145, NGC 4151, and NGC 4156, alongside a multitude of more distant galaxies that dot the sky like a veritable carpet of extragalactic stars.

NGC 4151 — The Star of the Field
Sometimes nicknamed the "mini-Quasar," NGC 4151 is one of the most studied active Seyfert galaxies. Its nucleus is particularly luminous due to the presence of a supermassive black hole of approximately 40 million solar masses, which is currently engulfing matter. This process generates intense radiation that extends from the radio to X-ray range. Located approximately 62 million light-years away, NGC 4151 is often considered a natural laboratory for the study of active galactic nuclei (AGN).

NGC 4145 — A Disturbed Spiral
Slightly lower in the image, NGC 4145, a barred spiral galaxy, can be seen face-on, with its arms slightly distorted by gravitational interactions. This irregular structure could be the result of past encounters with small satellite galaxies. Located approximately 45 million light-years away, it harbors star formation activity in its arms, which is indicated by a bluish hue.

NGC 4156 — Small but Not Inconspicuous
Right next to NGC 4151, the small NGC 4156 is an elliptical or lenticular galaxy. Although it appears modest in size, it is likely part of a group of interacting galaxies. Its diffuse halo indicates a turbulent history, potentially marked by minor mergers with other galaxies.