M104/Sombrero Galaxy

The M104/Sombrero galaxy is a barred spiral galaxy in the constellation of Virgo.

The M104/Sombrero galaxy is also known as NGC 4594. The galaxy was discovered in 1781, and was verified and made one of the Messier Catalogue objects devised by Charles Messier, hence the name Messier 104 or M104. The galaxy also looks a lot like a Mexican Sombrero Hat, hence it’s other name.

 

The M104/Sombrero galaxy is known for how very bright it is at it’s center. This galaxy is one of the brightest galaxies close to the Milky Way. The galaxy is thought to have a very large supermassive black hole at it’s center. The galaxy is bright enough to reflectively close enough to be visible through binoculars. 

 

Key Data

Size: Diameter of 50,000 light years.

Star Population:  100 billion.

Distance from Earth: 28 million light years.

Galaxy Type: Spiral.

Constellation: Virgo.

 

Kids Fun Facts Corner

# 1. The M104/Sombrero galaxy was discovered in 1781.

# 2. The M104/Sombrero is approximately 1/3 the size of the Milky Way galaxy.  

# 3. The M104/Sombrero galaxy is a spiral galaxy.

 

Q&A Corner

Q. In what year was the M104/Sombrero galaxy discovered?

Q. What size is the M104/Sombrero galaxy?

Q. What type of galaxy is the M104/Sombrero galaxy?

Q. What constellation is the M104/Sombrero galaxy in? 

Q. How many stars are in the M104/Sombrero galaxy?

Download questions about the M104/Sombrero galaxy here: M104 Sombrero Galaxy (answer are on this page)

For further reading and more on the M104/Sombrero galaxy visit www.space-facts.com/sombrero galaxy