Messier 58
In 2022, I received a dataset of the barred spiral galaxy Messier 58 (M58) from Telescope Live, acquired through one of their remote observatories in Spain. The data quality was excellent, benefiting from stable atmospheric conditions and precise tracking, typical of Telescope Live’s professional imaging facilities.
M58, located in the Virgo Cluster, is one of the few barred spiral galaxies in Messier’s catalogue and a particularly interesting target due to its pronounced central bar and subtle outer spiral structure. The dataset included well-calibrated subframes across multiple broadband filters, providing a strong foundation for accurate color and luminosity reproduction.
All data calibration, registration, and post-processing were performed using PixInsight, with attention to preserving fine structural detail in the galactic core while maintaining a natural background gradient. The final image clearly reveals the galaxy’s bright nucleus, defined bar, and faint outer spiral arms—demonstrating the high imaging standard achievable with modern remote observatories.


Here is an overview of the used equipment and the exposure times:
- Date: 2022
- Location: Spain
- Telescope/Lense: Officina Stellare Pro RC700
- Focal length [mm]: 5600
- Focal ratio: 8
- Mount: Equatorial fork mount
- Camera: FLI PL 16803
- Autoguiding: yes
- Filter: L:R:G:B
- Exposure time [min]: 20:20:20:20
- Resolution: 0.66″/px bin 2

Leave a reply