Sombrero Galaxy (M104)

May 31 - June 1, 2024 (Cherry Springs, PA)

The Sombrero Galaxy (Messier 104 or M104) is a striking spiral galaxy located about 28 million light-years away in the constellation Virgo. Its distinctive appearance resembles a wide-brimmed hat, with a prominent central bulge surrounded by a dark dust lane that wraps around its equator. The galaxy is notable for its large central bulge containing older stars and a supermassive black hole, making it a captivating subject for astronomers studying galaxy structure and evolution.