When to photograph NGC 3521 (Bubble Galaxy)
NGC 3521, the Bubble Galaxy, is a galaxy in Leo, 8′ x 5′ across at magnitude 9.1.
When to photograph it
From 45° N the best months are January to March, with up to 6.0 hours of astronomical darkness above 30° in February. It reaches 45° at its highest.
From 35° S the best months are February to April, with up to 7.0 hours of astronomical darkness above 30° in March. It reaches 55° at its highest.
Framing
Its long axis is 8′. It fills 35 to 80% of the short side of an APS-C sensor at about 2260 to 5170 mm, and of a full-frame sensor at about 3480 to 7950 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 NGC 3521'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 NGC 3521
NGC 3521 is 8.3′ along its long axis. These frame it on an APS-C sensor with room to crop.
- Celestron C8 OTA 2032 mm f/10: fills 31% of an APS-C frame's short side View at High Point Scientific
- Celestron EdgeHD 8 OTA 2032 mm f/10: fills 31% of an APS-C frame's short side View at High Point Scientific
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