M104 • NGC 4594 • Sombrero Galaxy

M104, the Sombrero Galaxy, is one of the most iconic galaxies in the Messier catalogue. The striking dark dust band running tightly through the disk, combined with the large, bright spherical core, gives the galaxy its characteristic sombrero shape. The halo is rich in old stars and contains subtle structures that become visible in long exposures. M104 is a spectacular spring object that looks impressive even with short exposures.