Sombrero Galaxy

[maximR]

Last night went galaxy hunting. I identified Spica and the constellation Corvus but couldn't find Sombrero. Any help ? I'm using a 3" scope by the way.

[johnh]

Hello there M104 has the highest surface brightness of any galaxy so can be seen easily but is only 8 arc min wide as a thin elongated structure. There are no really bright stars in that area which does make it a little tricky to find.

I am in Brisbane and can see it with 10x50bins at 40deg alt but it is very small so from UK it is pretty low but a 3" scope should pick it up but a 6" scope is needed to see the dust lane cut off against the bright nucleus. Keep trying as you should get it provided low alt mist is not present from the UK.

JohnH.

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

M104 is quite tricky, because it does not get dark enough here. A bit earlier in the year is easier. I only spotted it once or twice (goto seems attractive!!)

[LukeSkywatcher]

I think i bagged it the other morning. Not 100% but about 85-90% sure.