Deep Sky Object of the Month

Edge-on galaxy NGC 5709 in Draco. The high aspect ratio makes this galaxy a beautiful sight. The central dark lane should visible in 10-inch and larger scopes. POSS/DSS photo.

Bright edge-on galaxies are a fine sight in almost any telescope. In addition to their graceful appearance, there is the challenge of seeing the central dust lane.

This month's object is a fine example of an edge-on (or almost edge-on) spiral galaxy. At magnitude 10.3, even owners of modest equipment will be able to enjoy the sight of this thin, ghostly band of light. In larger scopes, the dark lane (see above photo) becomes visible, as does its full 12 arc-minute length. As in many edge-on galaxies, the brightness increases smoothly toward the center and there is no well-defined nucleus. This galaxy is oriented roughly north-south. If you are at a dark site and conditions permit, try boosting the magnification to reveal the dark lane and other details.

This galaxy lies at a distance of 40 million light years and is inclined a mere seven degrees to our line of sight.

How to get there:

This bright galaxy is about 3° south of 3rd magnitude Iota Draconis.

Finder chart for NGC 5907