Abell 347 is a galaxy cluster located about 240 million light-years away in the constellation Andromeda. It is part of the Perseus-Pisces Supercluster, one of the largest known cosmic structures. This galaxy cluster contains a variety of galaxies, including spirals, ellipticals, and lenticulars, all held together by the immense gravitational forces of dark matter. Abell 347 is often studied for insights into galaxy formation and the role of dark matter in cosmic evolution. Observations reveal that galaxies within Abell 347 interact gravitationally, occasionally merging, which leads to changes in their shape and star formation activity.
Telescope: 16″ f3.75 Dream Scope
Camera: FLI ML16803
Mount: ASA DDM85
Exposure: 12.5 hours (3x24x300s RGB + 78x300s L)
Date: October – November 2024
Location: Southern Alps, France
Bart Delsaert - Astrophotography 