Photo by Pittendreigh
Discovered in 1779 by Johann Bode, M64 is among the skies dozen brightest galaxies. It is nicknamed the "Black eye Galaxy" because of the presence of a dark lane at its center.
HOW TO FIND IT:
Half way between Beta Leonis and Alpha Bootes, and a bit to the north, is a triangle of stars in the constellation of Coma Berenices -- 40, 39 and 35. Along the line between 35 and 40, and a bit closer to 35, is M64.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
M64 will appear as an oval nebula. Be sure to look for the dark lane. It takes an experienced observer on a very good night to see the dark lane with lower powers. An 8 inch telescope will have no problem with it.
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