William Herschel discovered NGC 3384 = H I-18 = h758, along with NGC 3379 = M105 and NGC 3389, on 11 Mar 1784 (sweep 164). He recorded, "Three nebula in the field together. The two preceding ones NGC 3379 and 3384] cometic and much like the two former bright ones [M95 and M96] but considerable less. The following NGC 3389] r[esolvable] and of a longish form, elongated. These three together form a beautiful sight." John Herschel made three observations, each time calling it "vB".

200/250mm - 8" (3/28/81): fairly bright, round, moderately large.

300/350mm - 13.1" (2/25/84): bright, bright stellar nucleus, elongated 5:2 SW-NE. Second of three with M105 7.3' SW and NGC 3389 6.4' SSE.

600/800mm - 24" (4/20/14): very bright, large, elongated at least 2:1 SW-NE, ~3.2'x1.5' though the outer halo increases in size with averted vision. Sharply concentrated with a large, brilliant, rounder core that gradually increases to the center. Forms a prominent trio with M105 7.4' SW and NGC 3389 6.4' SSE. NGC 3384 is a member of the M96 or Leo I Group, along with M105.

Notes by Steve Gottlieb