M108 | NGC 3556 | Spiral Galaxy | Ursa Major | 6,300 Light Years Away
Messier 108, also known as the Surfboard Galaxy, is a barred spiral galaxy located in the constellation Ursa Major. Discovered by Pierre Méchain in 1781 and later included in Charles Messier’s catalog, it is situated approximately 46 million light-years away from Earth. The distinctive name “Surfboard Galaxy” is derived from the galaxy’s elongated shape, reminiscent of a surfboard lying on a wave.
Messier 108 exhibits a bright central region and well-defined spiral arms that wrap around its elongated structure. The galaxy’s central bar is a characteristic feature of barred spirals, contributing to its overall morphology. Observations of Messier 108 provide astronomers with valuable insights into the dynamics of barred spiral galaxies, the distribution of stellar populations, and the processes influencing star formation within these cosmic structures.
Visible with amateur telescopes, Messier 108 is a popular target for sky observers. Its unique shape and position in the northern sky make it an interesting object for visual observation and astrophotography. The study of galaxies like Messier 108 contributes to our broader understanding of galactic evolution, offering glimpses into the intricate processes that shape the diverse range of structures within the vast cosmic landscape.