NGC 2403 image

NGC 2403


Acquisition Details
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Description

NGC 2403 in Camelopardalis is a splendid example of a so-called "intermediate" spiral galaxy, much like M33. It's part of the M81 group of galaxies, the closest major group of galaxies to the Local Group. At 2.5 Mpc distant, it is still quite large and bright, with many new, blue star clusters and prominent HII regions. As an historical note, it was the first galaxy beyond the Local Group to have Cepheid variables discovered and photographed (using the Hale telescope on Mount Palomar). This image has approximate two hours of luminance data, and 40-50 minutes each of RGB. It could use a lot more, of course!