The Sculptor Galaxy, also known as NGC 253, is a striking spiral galaxy located in the constellation Sculptor, about 11.4 million light-years from Earth. Known as one of the brightest galaxies visible from Earth, it is part of the Sculptor Group, the nearest galaxy group to our Local Group. Its elongated shape and dusty spiral arms filled with star-forming regions give it a dynamic and textured appearance, earning it the nickname the "Silver Coin Galaxy."

NGC 253 is one of the most active star-forming galaxies close to our own, visible even with small telescopes. The galaxy’s vibrant star-forming regions are accentuated in this image, as well as its intricate, dark dust lanes. The Sculptor Galaxy's vigorous stellar nurseries and bright, bluish young star clusters contribute to its status as one of the most visually captivating galaxies in the southern sky.