NGC 4631 is a large distorted spiral galaxy in the constellation Canes Venatici.  It's odd shape is due to interaction
with it's companion NGC 4627.  This object is estimated to be 25 million LY distant and has played a significant
role is distorting neighboring galaxy NGC 4656, out of the field of view to the lower left.  All three companions
have been involved in close encounters with each other in the past.  NGC 4631 is commonly referred to as the
Whale Galaxy due to it's distinctive shape.



April 12, 2007
WO ZS 105mm f/7 Apo Refractor - Baader IR Filter
Canon Digital Rebel 300D / Modified (Hap Griffin)
120 Minutes / 24x300s @ 800ASA
Manually guided on a 14" Meade LX200
Skyhawk Observatory, West Bend, WI
Rick Kazmierski