M66 - Leo Triplet

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M66 - Leo Triplet

This a an attractive set of galaxies in the constillation Leo.  They consist of M65, M66 and NGC3628.  They are estimated to be about 35 million light years distant.  They fit into about a 1 degree diameter of the sky.  The Galaxie at the top left is NGC3628 is quite unusual.  Normally Galaxies seen edge on taper as you move outward from it's center.  In this case the Galaxie seems to be puffier at the edges. The dust lane is distinctly askew.  Also notice that the center has a bright shap of a peanut that is at an angle.  This is also unusual.  Normal Galaxies have a center that is more symetrical.   All of this suggests that the three Galaxies are tugging on each other.  They are gradually pulling each other apart.  These very large and distant structures are engaged in a silent dance in which they cannot escape.  

Date:  05-24-04

Telescope: FSQ106 4" APO Refractor operating at 530mm and Fstop 5.0      

Camera:ST8XE                

Location: Cedar Park Backyard

Exposure Time: LRGB 90min;15min;15min;15min 2x2bin

Processing: Maxim,Adobe combined