(IAAC) Obj: M104 (Sombrero galaxy) - Inst: Vixen 9x63 binoculars

anonymous at sedna.atmob.org anonymous at sedna.atmob.org
Sun Apr 23 01:26:31 EDT 2006


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Observation Poster: Stéphane Meloche <stephanemeloche at videotron.ca>

Observer: Stéphane Meloche
Your skills: Advanced (many years)
Date/time of observation: 2006/03/28 6h03 UT
Location of site: Ste-Catherine-de-Hatley, Québec, Canada (Lat 45.4542°, Elev 316 m)
Site classification: Exurban
Sky darkness: 5,6 <Limiting magnitude>
Seeing:  <1-10 Seeing Scale (10 best)>
Moon presence: None - moon not in sky
Instrument: Vixen 9x63 binoculars
Magnification: 
Filter(s): 
Object(s): M104 (Sombrero galaxy)
Category: External galaxy.
Class: SA
Constellation: Vir
Data: mag 8.0  size 7.1 x 4.4
Position: RA 12:40  DEC -11:37
Description:
In Virgo, at ~ 11° W of Spica (Alpha Vir). In the first second of the observation, I notice the extent of the galaxy, quite appreciable at 9x.  But while observing more, I note a stellar object of appearance located at SW of supposed core of M104. This object does not seem to belong to the galaxy (what was confirmed 3 days later by observing this same object with a 8" refractor. It's just a small star near M104).  By omitting this second object, dimensions of the Sombrero galaxy are rather modest at 9x.  Despite everything, I distinguish easily that the object is lengthened in an axis E-W and of ovoid form.  The center of the galaxy is stellar of appearance 50% of the time.  In the same field, I notice a beautiful star trio located a few seconds of arc at the west of M104 and whose HD 109875 is the most brilliant component.
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