When to photograph M 61
M 61 is a galaxy in Virgo, 7′ x 7′ across at magnitude 10.3. Also listed as NGC 4303.
When to photograph it
From 45° N the best months are February to April, with up to 6.7 hours of astronomical darkness above 30° in March. It reaches 49° at its highest.
From 35° S the best months are March to May, with up to 6.5 hours of astronomical darkness above 30° in March. It reaches 51° at its highest.
Framing
Its long axis is 7′. It fills 35 to 80% of the short side of an APS-C sensor at about 2720 to 6220 mm, and of a full-frame sensor at about 4190 to 9570 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 61'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 61
M 61 is 6.9′ along its long axis. These frame it on an APS-C sensor with room to crop.
- Celestron C8 OTA 2032 mm f/10: fills 26% of an APS-C frame's short side View at High Point Scientific
- Celestron EdgeHD 8 OTA 2032 mm f/10: fills 26% of an APS-C frame's short side View at High Point Scientific
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