NGC 802

NGC 802 is a barred spiral galaxy located in the constellation Hydrus. It is estimated to be approximately 280 million light-years away from Earth. The galaxy was discovered on November 2, 1834, by the astronomer John Herschel.

NGC 802 is characterized by its prominent bar structure, which runs through the center of the galaxy and from which the spiral arms emerge. Its classification is typically given as SB(s)c, indicating a barred spiral galaxy with loosely wound arms. The "s" notation indicates that the arms start directly from the ends of the bar and are not in a ring-like formation.

Observations suggest that NGC 802 is undergoing active star formation, particularly in the spiral arms. These regions contain numerous young, hot, and massive stars, which emit ultraviolet radiation that ionizes the surrounding gas, causing it to glow brightly.

The galaxy is part of a group of galaxies, indicating that it interacts gravitationally with other nearby galaxies. While no major interactions are readily apparent, subtle distortions in its shape could be related to such gravitational influences. Further study of NGC 802's dynamics and stellar populations could shed light on its evolutionary history and its relationship with other galaxies in its group.