IC 342 (also known as Caldwell 5) is an intermediate spiral galaxy in the constellation Camelopardalis, located relatively close to the Milky Way.

Despite its size and actual brightness, its location behind dusty areas near the galactic equator makes it difficult to observe, leading to the nickname "The Hidden Galaxy",[4][1] though it can readily be detected even with binoculars.

The dust makes it difficult to determine its precise distance; modern estimates range from about 7 million light-years (Mly)[6] to about 11 Mly.

Edwin Hubble first thought it to be in the Local Group, but it was later determined not to be a member.

[9] (Modern estimates are more conservative, giving the apparent size as one-half to two-thirds the diameter of the full moon).