by Craig and Tammy Temple
M49 is a bright elliptical / lenticular galaxy in the heart of the Virgo Cluster. Along with The Lost Galaxies (NGC 4535 & NGC 4526), the three form a nice grouping. At magnitude 9.30, M49 is the brightest. This image was acquired over 3 non-consecutive nights, May 30, May 31, and June 5, 2009. The temperatures were 77° F, 74° F and 68° F, respectively.
Orion 80ED (f/7.5)
Atlas EQ-G w/EQMOD, Guided
Canon 350D (self-modified) with Astronomik IR-block EOS clip filter + 2" Hutech IDAS LPS filter
Best 58/63 x 180s; Best 29/48 150s @ ISO 1600