When to photograph NGC 6822 (Barnard's Galaxy)
NGC 6822, the Barnard's Galaxy, is a galaxy in Sagittarius, 17′ x 17′ across at magnitude 10.1. Also listed as C 57.
When to photograph it
From 45° N the best months are , with up to 0.8 hours of astronomical darkness above 30° in July. It reaches 30° at its highest.
From 35° S the best months are June to August, with up to 8.3 hours of astronomical darkness above 30° in July. It reaches 70° at its highest.
Framing
Its long axis is 17′. It fills 35 to 80% of the short side of an APS-C sensor at about 1080 to 2470 mm, and of a full-frame sensor at about 1660 to 3790 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 6822'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 6822
NGC 6822 is 17′ along its long axis. These frame it on an APS-C sensor with room to crop.
- Celestron C8 OTA 2032 mm f/10: fills 66% of an APS-C frame's short side View at High Point Scientific
- Celestron EdgeHD 8 OTA 2032 mm f/10: fills 66% of an APS-C frame's short side View at High Point Scientific
- Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED 840 mm f/7: fills 27% of an APS-C frame's short side View at High Point Scientific
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