Galaxy
Hidden Galaxy
Spiral galaxy · C5 · IC 342
Spiral galaxy in Camelopardalis
Photo: KeithSteffens · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
IC 342 is an intermediate spiral galaxy in the constellation Camelopardalis, located relatively close to the Milky Way. Despite its size and actual brightness, its location behind dusty areas near the galactic equator makes it difficult to observe, leading to the nickname "The Hidden Galaxy", though it can readily be detected even with binoculars. If the galaxy were not obscured, it would be visible by naked eye. The dust makes it difficult to determine its precise distance; modern estimates range from about 7 million light-years (Mly) to about 11 Mly.
Description from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0).
In your sky
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Key facts
Distance
~10 million light-years
Apparent mag.
+9
Apparent size
19.8′ × 18.8′
Best seen with
Binoculars
Catalogue
C5 · IC 342
Did you know
- Listed as Caldwell 5 in the Caldwell catalogue, also known as IC 342.
- Found in the constellation Camelopardalis.
- Within reach of ordinary binoculars under dark skies.
