FreeLists / az-observing / [AZ-Observing] NGC 5248

[BillFerris@xxxxxxx]

Since wrapping my project to observe and sketch the Herschel 400 earlier this 
year, I've been revisiting some objects to make new, improved observations. 
Mostly, I'm targeting objets which were observed at low magnification to see 
what they reveal under closer scrutiny.

One of the objects on that list was NGC 5248. Last night, I turned the 
10-inch Starfinder Newtonian to this galaxy in Bootes at 190X and was treated 
to a 
fine view. Add NGC 5248 to the list of galaxies showing spiral structure in 
moderate aperture. Here are my notes and a link to my drawing:

"Bootes, the herdsman, is home to this fine stellar metropolis. NGC 5248 is 
tucked away in the farthest southwest corner of the constellation, just across 
from Virgo. The 10.3 magnitude Sc-type galaxy covers a 3'.5x2'.0 area along an 
east-west axis and features a stellar core embedded within a 30" diameter 
central nebulosity. A pair of misty spiral arms are seen. One curves gently to 
the north. The second reaches east-southeast, giving NGC 5248 an asymmetrical 
appearance. A 12th magnitude star stands 4' to the north. A 14th magnitude 
ember 
dimly glows just 2' to the south. Another four stars complete the view."

NGC 5248: http://members.aol.com/billferris/n5248.html

Regards,

Bill Ferris
"Cosmic Voyage: The Online Resource for Amateur Astronomers"
URL: http://www.cosmic-voyage.net
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