M104 NGC 4594
The Sombrero Galaxy

Object Type Galaxy SO
Constellation Virgo
Magnitude 8.3
Size 8.6' x 4.2'

M104 is an excellent object for observers using small telescopes. It is a beautiful example of an edge-on spiral galaxy, with a dark lane visible in an 8" telescope. The galaxy itself is visible in a 6 x 30 finder under dark skies. Generally considered to be a member of the Virgo cluster of galaxies, M104 appears to be about 40 million light years away. It is also one of the largest and brightest of the spiral galaxies, being much larger than our own Milky Way.

Film Images


45 minutes exposure, Fuji Super HG V 400 film. 5" f/5 refractor at prime focus.

CCD Images


Combination of a 1 minute and a 3 minute images.
Meade 416xt CCD, 8" f/6 newtonian at prime focus.


Combination of 15, 3 minute images. SBIG ST-9E CCD.
8" f/10 schmidt-cassegrain at prime focus.


5 minutes exposure, Meade 416xt CCD.
300mm f/6 newtonian at prime focus.


Combination of 10, 1 minute images. SBIG ST-9E CCD.
300mm f/6 newtonian at prime focus.


Combination of 5, 3 minute images unfiltered.
SBIG STL-1001E CCD. 20" f/6.8 Dall-Kirkham cassegrain telescope at prime focus.


Combination of 10, 3 minute images unfiltered
and 10, 3 minute images with red, green and blue filters.
SBIG STL-1001E CCD. 20" f/6.8 Dall-Kirkham cassegrain telescope at prime focus.


Combination of 20, 3 minute images unfiltered
and 10, 3 minute images with red, green and blue filters.
SBIG STL-1001E CCD. 20" f/6.8 Dall-Kirkham cassegrain telescope at prime focus.