Right ascension 00 29 15.0 Redshift 4241 ± 16 km/s Apparent size (V) 3′.0 × 0′.9 | Declination 2° 51′ 51″ Type S0 pec Magnitude 12.8 Apparent magnitude (V) 12.8 | |
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NGC 128 is a lenticular galaxy in the constellation Pisces. It is approximately 190 million light-years from earth and has a diameter of about 165,000 light years.
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Discovery
NGC 128 was discovered by astronomer William Herschel on 25 December 1790 using a reflecting telescope with an aperture of 18.7 inches. At the time of discovery, its coordinates were recorded as 00h 22m 05s, +87° 54.6′ -20.0″. It was later observed by John Herschel on 12 October 1827.
Visual appearance
The galaxy is described as "pretty bright", "very small" with a "brighter middle". It is approximately 165,000 light years in diameter and is elongated.
Galaxy group information
NGC 128 is the largest member, and the namesake of, the NGC 128 group which also includes the galaxies NGC 127 and NGC 130. NGC 128 has a strong tidal bridge with NGC 127 and there is evidence of interaction between all three galaxies in the group. NGC-128 has a noticeable peanut shape that is likely to be caused by gravitational effects of the other two galaxies.