The Wolf-Lundmark-Melotte galaxy, also known as WLM galaxy, is a dwarf irregular galaxy located in the constellation Cetus. It is named after the astronomers Max Wolf, Knut Lundmark, and Philibert Jacques Melotte, who independently discovered it in the early 20th century.

WLM is considered part of our Local Group of galaxies.  It stands alone at the group’s outer edges as one of its most remote members.  According to the European Southern Observatory, The WLM galaxy is so small and secluded that it may never have interacted with any other Local Group galaxy — or perhaps even any other galaxy in the history of the Universe.

Here are some key characteristics of the WLM galaxy:

Size and Distance: WLM is relatively small compared to other galaxies, with a diameter of about 8,000 light-years. It is also relatively nearby, located approximately 3 million light-years from Earth.

Irregular Structure: As an irregular galaxy, it lacks the distinct spiral or elliptical shape seen in larger galaxies like the Milky Way. Instead, it has a more chaotic and asymmetrical appearance, with no well-defined structure. When I look at WLM, it seems strikingly similar to the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds. 

Sparse Population: WLM has a low stellar density, containing relatively few stars compared to larger galaxies. It also has a low abundance of heavy elements, indicating that it has experienced minimal star formation activity throughout its history.

Star Formation: Despite its low stellar density, WLM does contain regions where new stars are actively forming. These regions are typically characterised by bright, blue-coloured nebulae where young, hot stars are surrounded by glowing gas and dust clouds.

Observational Significance: WLM is particularly interesting to astronomers studying dwarf galaxies and galaxy evolution. Its proximity and simple structure make it a valuable target for detailed observations to understand the processes driving the formation and evolution of galaxies.


Instruments:

• Telescope: 10" Ritchey-Chrétien RCOS
• Camera: SBIG STL-11000 Mono
• Mount: Astro-Physics AP-900
• Focal Length: 2310.00 mm
• Pixel size: 9.00 um
• Resolution: 0.82 arcsec/pix

Exposure Details:

• Red 20 X 600
• Green 18 X 600
• Blue 12 X 600
• Lum 109 X 600

Total Exposure: 26.5 Hours

Thanks for looking