When to photograph M 64 (Black Eye Galaxy)
M 64, the Black Eye Galaxy, is a galaxy in Coma Berenices, 11′ x 5′ across at magnitude 8.5. Also listed as NGC 4826.
When to photograph it
From 45° N the best months are February to April, with up to 7.7 hours of astronomical darkness above 30° in March. It reaches 67° at its highest.
From 35° S the best months are March to June, with up to 2.8 hours of astronomical darkness above 30° in April. It reaches 33° at its highest.
Framing
Its long axis is 11′. It fills 35 to 80% of the short side of an APS-C sensor at about 1790 to 4090 mm, and of a full-frame sensor at about 2750 to 6290 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 64'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 64
M 64 is 11′ along its long axis. These frame it on an APS-C sensor with room to crop.
- Celestron C8 OTA 2032 mm f/10: fills 40% of an APS-C frame's short side View at High Point Scientific
- Celestron EdgeHD 8 OTA 2032 mm f/10: fills 40% of an APS-C frame's short side View at High Point Scientific
Retailer links are affiliate links. If you buy through one, the site may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Details