M95 and M96 are a pair of neighboring spiral galaxies in Leo. They are located 2.5 degrees south of 5.5 magnitude 52 Leonis and separated by three-quarters of a degree in right ascension. M95 is classified as a barred spiral but no evidence of that feature is visible in my 10-inch. Both appear as 4'x2' ovals at low power, aligned north-south with M96 being slightly more elongated. These galaxies should present a good view for observers with 6-inch or larger scopes.

A 190X view presents these galaxies in their full glory. M95 is a fat oval, aligned north-south over a 5'x3' area. This 9.7 magnitude SBb-type galaxy features a stellar core embedded within a bright inner core region. This inner core occupies a 60"x30" area and is encased within the 5'x3' outer nebulosity. A 10th magnitude GSC star shines 6'.5 due west. Nine additional field stars frame the view. M96 neighbors 42' to the east-northeast.

Nearby M96 is an Sab-type spiral galaxy. Its 9.2 magnitude glow is spread over a 5'x3' area, which is aligned north-south. Similar to its bright neighbor, M96 displays a stellar core within a brighter core region. The outer disk drops noticeably in brightness. Fourteen field stars frame the view.