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Whale Galaxy

C72, NGC 55

Proper NameWhale Galaxy
Caldwell NumberC72
NGC/IC NumberNGC 55
ConstellationSculptor
Right Ascension0h 14m 54s
Declination-39° 11' 48"
Distancec.6,327,600 light years
c.1,940,000 parsecs
MagnitudeApparent: +7.9
Absolute: -18.6
Mean DiameterApparent: 29.9'
Actual: c.55,000 light years
Hubble TypeSBm Barred Spiral (Magellanic)
Optimum VisibilityOctober
NotesThis galaxy is not to be confused with another 'Whale Galaxy', the more prominent C32 in Canes Venatici. The Whale Galaxy in Sculptor is a Magellanic spiral, with a single spiral arm and a disordered structure giving it a somewhat irregular appearance. It is a member of the Sculptor Group of galaxies.

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