The Leo Triplet (M66 group) is a compact group of galaxies in the constellation Leo, about 35 million light years away. It comprises the spiral galaxies Messier 65 (M65), Messier 66 (M66) and NGC 3628, which interact gravitationally. These interactions cause tidal distortions, especially visible in the spiral arms of M66 and the prominent dust band of NGC 3628. M65 appears relatively undisturbed but shows a slightly asymmetric structure. The galaxies contain numerous H-II regions where intense star formation takes place. The system belongs to the larger M96 galaxy group within the Virgo Supercluster.
| IMAGE DATA | |
|---|---|
| Object | Leo Triplet (M66 Group) |
| Distance | approx. 35 million light years |
| Date | 18. - 19.03.2025 |
| Exposure | RGB each 53x 120sec., Luminance 238x 120sec. - Total approx. 13.2h |
| Mount | Skywatcher EQ6-R Pro |
| Telescope | Askar 120 Apo with 1.0x Flattener |
| Camera | ZWO ASI 2600mm with ZWO LRGB Filter |
| Guiding | Zwo Asi OAG with ZWO Asi 290mm Mini & Asiair |
| Software | AsiAir, Astropixel Processor, Photoshop CC, NoiseXterminator, Star X Terminator, Nik Collection 7 |