M96 | NGC 3368 | Spiral Galaxy | Leo | 35,000,000 Light Years Away
Messier 96 is a spiral galaxy located in the constellation Leo. Discovered by Charles Messier in 1781, it is part of the Leo I Group, a collection of galaxies in the same region of the sky. Positioned approximately 31 million light-years away from Earth, Messier 96 is characterized by its tightly wound spiral arms and a bright central region.
With a diameter of about 100,000 light-years, Messier 96 features prominent spiral arms rich in gas and dust, hosting regions of active star formation. The galaxy’s spiral structure is influenced by gravitational interactions with neighboring galaxies, contributing to the shaping of its overall morphology. Observations of Messier 96 provide astronomers with valuable insights into the processes of galactic evolution, the dynamics of spiral galaxies, and the interactions between different components within these cosmic structures.
Messier 96 is a popular target for amateur astronomers due to its relatively bright appearance in the night sky. Equipped with telescopes, observers can appreciate the intricate details of the spiral arms and explore the stellar populations within the galaxy. The study of Messier 96 adds to our understanding of the rich variety of galaxies within galaxy groups, offering a glimpse into the complexities of their formation and evolution in the vast cosmic landscape.