Messier 95 — Galaxy in Leo

M95 is a barred spiral galaxy in the constellation Leo, located approximately 32.6 million light-years from Earth. It is classified as type SBb, featuring a prominent central bar surrounded by a ring-like structure of active star formation. The bar channels gas inward toward the nucleus, fueling a compact starburst region at the galaxy's core. M95 spans about 46,000 light-years in diameter, making it somewhat smaller than the Milky Way. It is a member of the Leo I group (also called the M96 group), a collection of galaxies that also includes M96 and M105. The galaxy's well-defined spiral arms wind outward from the ends of the bar, studded with blue star-forming regions and dark dust lanes.

Located in Leo, about 9 degrees east of Regulus and roughly 40 arcminutes west-southwest of M96. At magnitude 9.7, M95 requires at least a 4-inch telescope and dark skies to detect as a faint, round glow with a brighter center. An 8-inch telescope reveals the elongated core and hints of the bar structure. Larger apertures (12 inches+) under excellent conditions may show the ring of star formation surrounding the bar. M95, M96, and M105 form a pleasing trio within about 1 degree, all visible in a wide-field eyepiece. Best observed from February through May when Leo is high in the evening sky.

Discovered by Pierre Mechain on March 20, 1781, and subsequently cataloged by Charles Messier four days later. The galaxy received relatively little attention until the 20th century, when its barred structure was recognized. In March 2012, supernova SN 2012aw, a Type IIP supernova, was discovered in M95, reaching magnitude 12.7 and providing valuable data on the final stages of massive star evolution.