Sources disagree somewhat on the detailed structure of this galaxy, and it is variously classified as an elliptical, lenticular and barred spiralgalaxy. It appears to be undergoing evolution of its form, and is in the process of developing from a relatively undifferentiated lenticular shape into a more distinct barred spiral pattern.
NGC 3384 is a member of the Leo I Group of galaxies, and visible to the southwest of this image is another important member of the same group, M105. These two galaxies, with others of their group, lie within the Leo Ring, an immense ring of material thrown out by an ancient collision between NGC 3384 and M96, another member of the group. Imagery provided by Aladin sky atlas
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