One way we know this is an elliptical galaxy as opposed to a spiral galaxy is that the color is red as shown.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Elliptical galaxies are typically redder in color than spiral galaxies due to their older stellar populations and lack of ongoing star formation. Spiral galaxies, on the other hand, tend to have a mix of blue and red colors due to the presence of young, hot blue stars and older, cooler red stars.

One Way We Know This Is an Elliptical Galaxy as Opposed