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Spindle Galaxy

M102 (candidate), NGC 5866

Proper NameSpindle Galaxy
Messier NumberProbable identity of M102
NGC/IC NumberNGC 5866
ConstellationDraco
Right Ascension15h 6m 30s
Declination+55° 45' 48"
Distancec.47,100,000 light years
c.14,500,000 parsecs
MagnitudeApparent: +9.81
Absolute: -20.99
DiameterApparent: 6.5'
Actual: c.74,000 light years
Hubble TypeS0 Lenticular
Optimum VisibilityMay (Usually visible from northern latitudes)
NotesThe intended identity of Messier 102 is not known with certainty, but Draco's Spindle Galaxy is generally considered the most likely candidate. This galaxy is not to be confused with another unrelated 'Spindle Galaxy', NGC 3115 in the equatorial constellation of Sextans.

Imagery provided by Aladin sky atlas

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