Credits: J Schulmann555

Barred spiral galaxy NGC 2903 is only some 20 million light-years distant. Popular among amateur astronomers, it shines in the northern spring constellation Leo, near the top of the lion's head. That part of the constellation is sometimes seen as a reversed question mark or sickle. One of the brighter galaxies visible from the northern hemisphere, NGC 2903 is surprisingly missing from Charles Messier's catalog of lustrous celestial sights. This colorful image from a small ground-based telescope shows off the galaxy's gorgeous spiral arms traced by young, blue star clusters and pinkish star forming regions.

Facts about NGC2903 by Keith Turnecliff

NGC2903 is one of the best galaxies for small telescope users. This barred spiral galaxy displays a bright halo and a concentrated oval core.
Larger instruments reveal a mottled halo with dark and bright patches.

This star chart represents a view from Long Itchington for mid March at 10pm.
Credits: Image courtesy of Starry Night Pro Plus 8, researched and implemented by Keith Turnecliff.