Starburst galaxies are characterized by high infrared luminosities, a sign of the immense light and radiation released from its young massive stars. Although it cannot be observed directly because of obscuring dust and an edge-on orientation, astronomers have good evidence for a central bar within NGC 4945.
A central bar provides a very efficient means of transporting gas inward towards its nucleus thus setting the stage for the formation of nuclear starbursts. The stars are sufficiently old enough to have enriched the central medium with heavier elements and exotic organic compounds.
