Hickson 72 (Arp 328) was observed on June 13, 1999 with a 17.5-inch Dobsonian: 4.8mm (380x): The group appears as a rough north to south chain including a 14th magnitude star at the northern end. This line lies about 4’ east of a magnitude 7.5 white star. Hickson 72A (MCG+03-38-017, 13.4, Sa, 12633 km/s) lies about 1’ south-southeast of this 14th magnitude star and is elongated 2:1 east to west, less than 1/8’, and slightly brighter to center. Hickson 72B (MCG+03-38-021, 14.9, S0, 12483 km/s) and Hickson 72D (MCG+03-38-020, 14.8, SB0, 12683 km/s) appear as a pair in contact. Hickson 72B is the northwestern of the pair and is about 1’ south of Hickson 72A. It is slightly brighter than Hickson 72D. Both are slightly elongated north to south, less than 1/8’ across, and slightly brighter to center. Hickson 72C (MCG+03-38?022, 14.8, E2, 13189 km/s) is the southern of the group and lies about 1’ south of Hickson 72D. It is slightly elongated northwest to southeast and slightly brighter to center. Hickson 72E (MCG+03-38-018, 17.3, Scd, 24177 km/s) and Hickson 72F (PGC 52849, 17.3, S0, 14077 km/s) were not detected. Higher magnifications proved too difficult to hold the field to be able to attempt detection.

Hickson Petroglyphs, about 20 miles east of Austin, NV. The camping area is actually quite nicely set up and at night the area gets very quiet (except the coyotes). Since there are no cities and thus no light or air pollution, star-gazing is quiet good as well. This and adjacent picture are of the petroglyphs. (Scan of an older film photo)