Hoag's Object is a non-typical galaxy of the type known as a ring galaxy. The galaxy is named after Arthur Hoag who discovered it in 1950 and identified it as either a planetary nebula or a peculiar galaxy with eight billion stars.

Distance to Earth: 612.8 million light years

Radius: 60,500 light years

Apparent size (V): 0.28′ × 0.28′

Coordinates: RA 15h 17m 14s | Dec +21° 35′ 8″

Stars: 8 billion

Did you know: A few galaxies share the primary characteristics of Hoag's Object, including a bright detached ring of stars, but their centers are elongated or barred, and they may exhibit some spiral structure.