NGC 3507
UGC 6123
PGC33390

Galaxy

Leo

Class: SB(s)b

RA: 11h 03m 25.6s
DEC: +18° 08’ 08”

Mag: 11.9

Size: 4.6’x3.7’


Discovered in 1784 by William Herschel and his 18.7” f/14 speculum telescope, NGC 3507 is a beautiful barred spiral, face-on galaxy in the constellation Leo. NGC3507, although dim, does offer up a nice view for observers. In modern images, NGC3507 is a bit reminiscent of the Lost Galaxy of Virgo, NGC 4535.

Online reports indicate that NGC3507 has been observed in telescopes as small as 12”. Although faint, NGC 3507 is a moderately sized galaxy at approximately 3’ across. The galaxy appears to have a dual core as a 10th magnitude star sits beside the actual galactic core itself. Only in the largest of telescopes will observers start to catch glimpses of NGC3507s ‘backward S’ arms.

Approximately 12.5’ southwest of NGC3507 is NGC 3501. NGC3501 is a difficult and faint edge-on spiral galaxy with its 12.9 magnitude and thin appearance that can give anyone a challenge.

Let me apologize for the brevity of this weeks OOTW. This week has been nothing short of busy and time was short. But, with that said, if you do get out anytime soon for galaxy season, be sure to give these two objects a go! I know I will!! I’d really like to read some reports before I do!

Always remember, give it a go and let us know!

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640px-NGC_3501_SDSS.jpg

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