NGC 3486: Spiral Galaxy (Leo Minor) RA: 11h 00.4m / DEC: +28° 58'.5 Instrument: 10-inch Starfinder |
Leo Minor is often overlooked by galaxy hunters who prefer the richly populated constellations of Leo, Virgo and Canes Venatici. However, there are some fine celestial treasures in Leo Minor. NGC 3486 is tucked away in western Leo Minor. The closest bright star is 5.4 magnitude 42 Leonis Minoris, about 3.5 degrees to the northwest. The sketch at left presents NGC 3486 as seen in the 10-inch Starfinder at 63X. The Sc-type galaxy displays a stellar nucleus embedded within a 4'x3' nebulosity. The galaxy is elongated east-to-west. 8.3 magnitude HD 95342 shines just 15' to the northeast. Another 24 field stars complete the view. |
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