Chandra Release - August 6, 2001

Visual Description: Centaurus A

The X-ray image of the elliptical galaxy with an active galactic nucleus Centaurus A is a bright visual representation of a distant celestial object.  The background of the image is a deep blue color, which creates a sense of depth and space. The main feature of the image appears as a large, elongated shape in the center of the image, stretching from one side to the other.  This is Chandra detecting a jet emanating from the core and numerous point-like X-ray sources, all bathed in diffuse X-rays produced by several-million-degree gas that fills the galaxy. 
In the center of the galaxy, there is a bright spot, which is the active galactic nucleus (AGN). This region contains a supermassive black hole that is actively accreting matter from its surroundings. The AGN emits intense radiation across the electromagnetic spectrum, including X-rays, which are captured in this image. The AGN is much brighter than the rest of the galaxy, making it stand out prominently against the blue background.