NGC 1231 is a barred spiral galaxy located approximately 70 million light-years away in the constellation Eridanus. It was discovered by the astronomer John Herschel in 1834 and is part of the Hercules constellation group. This galaxy has a diameter of about 100,000 light-years and contains a mix of young and old stars, along with regions of active star formation. NGC 1231 is notable for its bright core and well-defined spiral arms, making it an interesting object for both amateur and professional astronomers.