When to photograph M 95
M 95 is a galaxy in Leo, 7′ x 5′ across at magnitude 9.8. Also listed as NGC 3351.
When to photograph it
From 45° N the best months are January to March, with up to 7.8 hours of astronomical darkness above 30° in February. It reaches 57° at its highest.
From 35° S the best months are February to April, with up to 5.3 hours of astronomical darkness above 30° in February. It reaches 43° 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 2610 to 5960 mm, and of a full-frame sensor at about 4010 to 9170 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 95'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 95
M 95 is only 7.2′ 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 27% of an APS-C frame's short side View at High Point Scientific
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