The morphological (shape) class of NGC 5962 in the infrared is SAB(rs,nrl)c. This notation indicates the galaxy has a bar structure around the nucleus (SAB), an inner pseudo-ring likely associated with the outer Lindblad resonance (rs), a ring-lens structure at the nucleus (nrl), and loosely-wound spiral arms (c).[5] In the optical band, this galaxy is classed as Hubble type SA(r)c,[10] displaying an inner ring with no visible bar. The galactic plane is inclined at an angle of 45°±2° to the line of sight from the Earth, giving it an oval profile with the major axis aligned along a position angle of 109°±4°.[11]
Along with a populated nucleus, it has a relatively large core, but a small central bulge, in which the spiral arms begin to unfurl. There is some evidence for a low level of nuclear activity, and it has been classed as a nuclear H II region galaxy.[10] Based on its emission of far ultraviolet radiation, the pseudo-ring structure is actively undergoing star formation.[12] The galaxy is forming stars at the rate of 6 M☉·yr−1.[13] There are two confirmed satellite galaxies; a third candidate proved to be too distant based on its redshift value.[14]
Two supernovae have been detected in this galaxy: SN 2016afa (type II, mag. 17.1)[15] was discovered February 12, 2016, and SN 2017ivu (type IIP, mag. 15.4)[16] was spotted December 11, 2017.[17]