Galaxy NGC 6822 (MIRI image) - Section

Situated approximately 1.5 million light-years away, NGC 6822 is the Milky Way’s closest galactic neighbor that is not one of its satellites. Webb's MIRI instrument is designed to explore the mid-infrared spectrum, making it exceptionally well-suited for observing the dense gas regions permeating this galaxy. At these mid-infrared wavelengths, the glow emitted by galactic dust takes center stage, overshadowing the galaxy's stars, which are themselves dim at these extended wavelengths. Active star formation regions in the galaxy are highlighted by vibrant red and magenta colors. Given the abundance of stars, supernova explosions occur regularly, and a remarkable illustration of a supernova remnant is evident in this image—a red ring positioned just below the center. An alternate, full-width, version is also available.