This 3D model of elliptical galaxy M87 was created using a Hubble Space Telescope photo. The grid is overlayed to trace out its three-dimensional shape which was derived from observations made with the Hubble and Keck telescopes. The galaxy is too far away for earth-based or orbiting telescopes to employ stereoscopic vision, so observations of the motion of stars around the center of M87 were used to construct this three-dimensional view of how stars are distributed within the galaxy.

Video Credits—
Animation: NASA / ESA / Joseph Olmsted (STScI)
3D Model: Frank Summers (STScI)