John Herschel discovered NGC 7424 = h3965 on 5 Sep 1834 and recorded "F; vL; R; vgmbM; 3' diam." Based on Helwan photographs taken in 1919-20, it was described as "pF, 6'x6', pB nucleus elongated in p.a. 130°; spiral with open [spiral arms] and condensations."

This loose face-on spiral might show structure in the southern hemisphere.

300/350mm - 13.1" (9/3/86): very diffuse, hazy, fairly large, round, weak concentration. Located 16' E of mag 6.8 SAO 231360.

Notes by Steve Gottlieb