M63 NGC 5055
The Sunflower Galaxy

Object Type Galaxy Sb
Constellation Canes Venatici
Magnitude 8.5
Size 12.5' x 7.0'

M63 is a large and bright galaxy that is an outlying member of the Virgo cluster. It is situated in Canes Venatici, about 4 degrees north and about 5 degrees east of Cor Caroli. In an 8" telescope, it appears as a bright core surrounded by a fainter haze.


Combination of 26, 3 minute exposures unfiltered.
SBIG STL-1001E CCD. 20" f/6.8 Dall-Kirkham cassegrain telescope at prime focus.