When to photograph NGC 5907 (Splinter Galaxy)
NGC 5907, the Splinter Galaxy, is a galaxy in Draco, 11′ x 2′ across at magnitude 10.4.
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 79° at its highest. It never sets from this latitude, so some imaging is possible all year.
From 35° S it never rises.
Framing
Its long axis is 11′. It fills 35 to 80% of the short side of an APS-C sensor at about 1660 to 3800 mm, and of a full-frame sensor at about 2560 to 5840 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 5907's altitude through tonight, its transit time and its distance from the moon. For sub length, use the exposure calculator.
Nearby targets
- M 102 Spindle Galaxy 1.4° away
- M 101 Pinwheel Galaxy 10.5° away
- M 51 Whirlpool Galaxy 18.6° away
- NGC 6543 Cat's Eye Nebula 21.4° away
- M 40 Winnecke 4 23.2° away
- M 92 23.3° away
Gear that suits NGC 5907
NGC 5907 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 43% of an APS-C frame's short side View at High Point Scientific
- Celestron EdgeHD 8 OTA 2032 mm f/10: fills 43% 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