This object is a LCBG (Luminous Blue Compact Galaxy), a relatively rare type of high surface brightness galaxy that is undergoing a major burst of star formation.

600/800mm - 24" (2/5/13): at 375x appeared faint to fairly faint, small, round, 15"x12", sharp stellar nucleus. Forms a close pair with CGCG 420-003 1.7' SW. A much fainter companion a similar distance north was not seen. Situated in a group of mag 12-15 stars with a mag 12 star 1.3' SSW. Located 8' NE of mag 8.3 HD 30618.

Notes by Steve Gottlieb