NGC 4631 (also known as the Whale Galaxy or Caldwell 32) is a barred spiral galaxy in the constellation Canes Venatici about 30 million light years away from Earth. This galaxy’s slightly distorted wedge shape gives it the appearance of a herring or a whale, hence its nickname. Because this nearby galaxy is seen edge-on from Earth, professional astronomers observe this galaxy to better understand the gas and stars located outside the plane of the galaxy. (Source: Wikipedia).
Technical Details
Dates: 10/1/2024
Location: Uckerath, Germany
Imaging Telescope: 8″ GSO f/4 (Carbon Tube)
Imaging Camera: ASI294 MC
Filter: Baader Planetarium UHC-S
Mount: Skywatcher EQ-6
Guiding Telescope: TSO OAG
Guiding Camera: QHY 5L-II
Integration: 78 x 3 min (Gain: 120)
Software: NINA, PhD2, PixInsight
Plate Solution
