NGC 3718

NGC 3718, also known as Arp 214 or LEDA 35576, is a barred spiral galaxy located approximately 52 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major. It is classified as a peculiar galaxy due to its warped disk and prominent dust lane that crosses its face at an oblique angle.

The distortion in NGC 3718 is believed to be the result of gravitational interaction with another nearby galaxy, NGC 3729, though the exact nature of their interaction is still being studied. While NGC 3729 is located relatively close in the sky, its radial velocity suggests it is situated further away, making a strong gravitational interaction less likely. The possibility of interaction with other, less prominent galaxies in the group has also been suggested.

The unusual morphology of NGC 3718 includes a striking S-shaped warp in its spiral arms and a complex system of tidal features. These features are indicative of past or ongoing gravitational disturbances. The galaxy exhibits active star formation, particularly along its spiral arms and in regions disturbed by the interaction.

NGC 3718 is a popular target for amateur and professional astronomers alike, due to its interesting structure and the challenges it presents in understanding its formation and evolution. Its peculiar features make it a valuable object for studying galactic interactions and the effects of gravity on galaxy morphology.