NGC 253

Spiral Galaxy NGC 253 (= H V.1 = Bennett 4 = Caldwell 65) in Sculptor

Silver Coin Galaxy, Sculptor Galaxy

[n0253aat.gif]
Right Ascension 00 : 47.6 (h:m)
Declination -25 : 17 (deg:m)
Distance 10000.0 (kly)
Visual Brightness 7.1 (mag)
Apparent Dimension 25x7 (arc min)

NGC 253 is the brightest member of the Sculptor group of galaxies, which is grouped around the South galactic pole (therefore, also sometimes named "South Polar Group"). The Sculptor group is perhaps the nearest to our Local Group of galaxies. NGC 253 is also one of the brightest galaxies beyond the Local Group. The RASC Observer's Handbook gives the common name Silver Coin Galaxy for NGC 253; it is also referred to as the Sculptor Galaxy.

NGC 253 was one of the major discoveries of Caroline Herschel, the sister of William Herschel (according to John Herschel's GC).

Our image was obtained by David Malin with the Anglo-Australian Telescope. This image is copyrighted and may be used for private purpose only. For any other kind of use, including internet mirroring and storing on CD-ROM, please contact Coral Cooksley of the Anglo Australian Observatory.

  • More information on this image (David Malin)

    In the SAC 110 best NGC object list. In John Caldwell's observing list. No. 13 in the RASC Finest NGC Objects list.

    Hartmut Frommert (spider@seds.org)
    Christine Kronberg (smil@lrz.uni-muenchen.de)

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    Last Modification: 29 Mar 1998, 13:15 MET