UGC 3294 is part of a small group (LGG 130) in Orion (2.6? SSW of Bellatrix!) at a distance of ~180 million light years, along with IC 412 and IC 413 (VV 225) 34' SSE. The distance implies a diameter of 150,000+ light years, so UGC 3294 is a large spiral.

600/800mm - 24" (12/28/16): at 225x moderately bright and large, contains a very diffuse, low surface brightness halo perhaps 1.3'x0.6' NW-SE with a small brighter core that increases to a stellar nucleus. The outer halo changes appearance with averted vision (no sharp edge) based on what part catches my averted vision. Situated 4' W of mag 6.5 HD 34959 and the glare affects the view -- best with star placed outside the field.

Notes by Steve Gottlieb