In between the Dipper star Merak and M-97 (the Owl Nebula) is a rarely observed spiral galaxy, number 108 on Messier's list. Seen at an angle, it is an elongated blur with an apparently "sparkling" texture in the nuclear regions like M-64. I have often referred to this galaxy as the "Surfboard", which I think rather describes its appearance in a six inch scope.
| NGC: | 3556 |
| OTHER NAMES: | M-108 |
| CLASS: | spiral galaxy |
| SIZE: | 8.0' x 1.5' |
| MAGNITUDE: | +11 |
| POSITION: | 11h 09m +55d 57' |
| CONSTELLATION: | Ursa Major |
| DATE OF SKETCH: | 10/28/76 |
| MAGNIFICATION USED: | 70x |
