Nestled in the constellation known as Draco also called the Dragon lies a group of three galaxies that astronomers often refer to as the Draco Group. This trio consists of NGC 5985 a galaxy facing us directly NGC 5982 a galaxy and NGC 5981 a spiral galaxy seen edge on. These galaxies are neatly packed within our telescopic view. Extend beyond the width of a full moon. Although they are not large enough to be classified as a galaxy cluster they reside 100 million years away, from our planet.
While they may not have gained recognition as other groups of galaxies this trio possesses a captivating visual appeal that makes them highly sought after by astrophotographers. By examining the core of the galaxy NGC 5985 using spectrographs astronomers have identified wavelengths of emitted light that classify it as a Seyfert galaxy—a type of active galactic nucleus.
A deep exposure of these three galaxies reveals intriguing features such, as an dim halo surrounding the NGC 5982. Additionally edged shells encase this galaxy—a telltale sign of past galactic mergers. Moreover this long exposure also unveils galaxies scattered throughout the background.
Image Credit & Copyright: David Vernet, Jean-François Bax, Serge Brunier, OCA/C2PU.
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