NGC4111
UGC7103

Canes Venatici

Galaxy

RA 12 07 2.7
DEC 43 04 02

Mag 10.6

Size 5.2' x 1.2

Class SA(r)0+:sp

An edge-on lenticular class galaxy, NGC 4111 was discovered by William Herschel in 1788. Approximately 50Mly away and located in Canes Venatici, this beautiful edge on makes for a great target in a variety of telescope sizes.

Online reports claim this galaxy has been bagged in scopes down to 6" of aperture. Not flat galaxy standards, the disk of 4111 is inclined about 3° to our line of sight giving us a flattened view with a bulging nucleaus. NGC4111 provides the observer with a high surface brightness core and dustlane that extends NW- SE. Reports of a mottled halo has also been noted. Stephen O'Meara cites a "peanut shape" core - resulting from possible dust lying perpendicular to the galaxy's disk plane. A quick image search revealed such dust in the Hubble image posted below. My own observing notes make no mention of such a uniquely shaped core while using either Jimis 48 or my own 25" here in Illinois.

When in the area of NGC4111, don't just scan over some of its neighbors. NGC4109 5° to the SW and the pair NGC4117 & 4118 8° to the E-NE offer up some challenge! And for the big boys, UGC 7089 & UGC7094 make for even tougher challenges!

So next time you're out be sure to point your scope towards the Hunting Dogs and give this galaxy a shot. Be sure to look for some of the unique characteristics as well as the other targets listed above . And as always,

"Give it a go and let us know!"

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©HAS

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©HST