NGC 3628 - Hamburger Galaxy
NGC 3628 is an edge-on spiral galaxy and the faintest member of the Leo Triplet. It's known for its prominent dust lane dividing the galaxy like a hamburger bun.
Distance: 35 million light-years
Apparent Magnitude: 9.54
Apparent Size: 15' × 3'
Constellation: Leo
Morphology: SA(s)b (edge-on spiral)
Key Features:
- Edge-on with prominent dust lane
- Member of Leo Triplet
- Tidal tail extending 300,000 light-years
- Active star formation in disk
- Fainter than M65 and M66
Best Imaging Season: January - May
Optimal Integration: 10+ hours for tidal tail