NGC 196

NGC 196 is a lenticular galaxy located in the constellation Cetus. It is estimated to be approximately 210 million light-years away from Earth.

NGC 196 is classified as an SB0 galaxy, indicating that it is a barred lenticular galaxy. Lenticular galaxies are intermediate between spiral and elliptical galaxies, possessing a disk but lacking prominent spiral arms. The "SB" designation denotes the presence of a bar-like structure crossing the galaxy's center.

The galaxy was discovered on December 28, 1790, by the astronomer William Herschel. It is a member of the galaxy group LGG 9, which also includes NGC 197, NGC 200, and IC 42.

While not as actively star-forming as spiral galaxies, lenticular galaxies like NGC 196 can still exhibit some level of star formation activity, primarily in their central regions. Further observation and analysis are required for a comprehensive understanding of its specific characteristics, such as its mass, star formation rate, and the properties of its stellar population.