When to photograph M 105
M 105 is a galaxy in Leo, 5′ x 4′ across at magnitude 9.3. Also listed as NGC 3379.
When to photograph it
From 45° N the best months are January to March, with up to 8.0 hours of astronomical darkness above 30° in February. It reaches 58° at its highest.
From 35° S the best months are February to April, with up to 5.2 hours of astronomical darkness above 30° in February. It reaches 42° at its highest.
Framing
Its long axis is 5′. It fills 35 to 80% of the short side of an APS-C sensor at about 3830 to 8760 mm, and of a full-frame sensor at about 5890 to 13470 mm.
Filters and the moon
Galaxies are broadband targets. Filters cannot separate their light from light pollution, so dark skies and moon-free nights matter most. The dark sky calendar shows which nights this month are moon-free where you are.
Plan it for tonight
Dates and times depend on your exact location. The imaging planner shows M 105's altitude through tonight, its transit time and its distance from the moon. For sub length, use the exposure calculator.
Nearby targets
Gear that suits M 105
M 105 is only 4.9′ across, so it stays small in any amateur telescope. The longest focal length gives it the most pixels.
- Celestron C8 OTA 2032 mm f/10: fills 19% of an APS-C frame's short side View at High Point Scientific
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