NGC 3359 is a barred spiral galaxy located approximately 59 million light-years from Earth in the constellation of Ursa Major. It was discovered by the astronomer William Herschel on November 28, 1793. The central bar structure within NGC 3359 is approximately 500 million years old. Interestingly, NGC 3359 is currently “devouring” a much smaller galaxy nicknamed the Little Cub. One supernova, SN 1985H, has been observed in NGC 3359. Its type is II, and its magnitude was 161. Here’s an image of NGC 3359 acquired in March 2015:

This beautiful barred spiral galaxy adds to the cosmic tapestry of our universe! 🌌🔭

NGC 3359 is classified as a barred spiral galaxy. Its specific classification is SB (rs)c1. The 'SB' indicates that it has a central bar structure, and the '(rs)c' signifies that it is a late-type spiral galaxy. Late-type spirals typically have loosely wound arms and are rich in gas and dust, where new star formation occurs. NGC 3359 is a beautiful example of this galactic type! 🌟🔭

Learn more

en.wikipedia.org, theskylive.com, planetary.org

Photo Capture Info:

• ~ 6 hrs each of Red, Green, Blue

Total Integration time: 18 hours

Optical Equipment Used:

• Baader RGB Filters

• Scope: Explore Scientific ED 127mm  refractor

• Camera: ZWO 2600mm 

• Guide scope: Agena Astro 60mm refractor

• Guide camera: ZWO ASI120mm-S

Computerized Equipment and Software:

• Mount: Losmandy G11G

• Beelink Mini PC S Intel 11th Gen

• Focuser: ZWO EAF (Electronically Assisted Focuser)

• Filter Wheel: ZWO 7 Position

• Pegasus Pocket Powerbox Micro 

• NINA 3.0 Beta used for capture

• PixInsight for Processing