Object name
M63 the Sunflower galaxy

Constellation: Canes Venatici
Distance : 27 million light years

Imaged by Jean-Yves Beninger from Alqueva Dark Sky, Portugal
On 27, 28, 29 May and 3 June 2026

Equipment:
Astro-Physics Mach1
Astro-Physics AP130 Starfire EDF with 2.7" field flattener 67PF562, 873mm
Camera Zwo ASI 2600MM pixel size 3.76µ
Filters H, R, G, B

Description:

Messier 63, the Sunflower Galaxy, is a stunning spiral galaxy located about 27 million light-years away in the constellation Canes Venatici. Its bright yellow core and fragmented spiral arms give it the appearance of a sunflower in bloom.