Celestial hemisphere:  Northern  ·  Constellation: Pisces (Psc)  ·  Contains:  12.95  ·  120 Lachesis  ·  M 74  ·  NGC 628
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Messier 74, Indy Backyard Astro
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Messier 74, Indy Backyard Astro
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Description

Messier 74, also known as NGC 628 or the Phantom Galaxy, is a mesmerizing spiral galaxy located in the constellation Pisces. Discovered by the French astronomer Pierre Méchain in 1780, it was later cataloged by Charles Messier and became the 74th entry in his famous list of astronomical objects.What makes Messier 74 stand out is its remarkable appearance. This grand design spiral galaxy showcases beautifully defined spiral arms that gracefully wind around its central region. Its striking appearance has earned it the nickname "the Phantom Galaxy," as its spirals seem to fade away, creating a ghostly, ethereal effect.This galaxy is situated at a distance of approximately 32 million light-years from Earth, making it a relatively close neighbor in cosmic terms. It spans about 95,000 light-years across, making it roughly the size of our Milky Way galaxy. Messier 74 is also known for its active star formation regions, particularly within its spiral arms. These regions are rich in gas and dust, providing the necessary ingredients for the birth of new stars.

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Messier 74, Indy Backyard Astro