GALAXY Astrophotography

There are thousands of galaxies out there waiting to be imaged! We've captured many including ones in the Messier Catalog, which has a total of 40 galaxies.

We recommend spending about 4 hours total for each galaxy, and it must be taken in dark skies. It can be a challenge for an astrophotographer to capture galaxies because they are small.

Check out the articles below to discover more about each object. By clicking on the image, you will find more about how much time we spent on it, the gear we used, and other acquisition notes.

What Types of Galaxies are There?

There are four types of galaxies: Spiral, Barred Spiral, Elliptical, and Irregular. Each type has a different look that is unique and impressive for astrophotography images.

1) Spiral Galaxy

This is the most recognizable galaxy type. Its center is a sphere and it has long beautiful "arms" extending outward in a spiral.

There are 24 spiral galaxies in the Messier Catalog, some of which are the most famous objects in the night sky!

Andromeda Galaxy (M31)
Pinwheel Galaxy (M101)
Triangulum Galaxy (M33)

2) Barred Spiral Galaxy

Similar to spiral galaxies, except its core appears more like a bar. This type of galaxy is considered "temporary" because it eventually rounds up over time.

The picture above is a Barred Spiral Galaxy, Messier 95, where you can clearly see the shape of the core.

The Milky Way Galaxy is a barred spiral galaxy!

3) Elliptical Galaxy

Most are found in galaxy clusters such as the Virgo Supercluster. They are spherical, elongated in shape, and show no detail when photographed. It's a blob of light.

These types of galaxies lack the gas and dust that are needed for star formation activity and do not have any visible arms.

It is the least impressive-looking galaxy type.

4) Irregular Galaxy

Unlike the other types, irregular galaxies do not have a distinct shape or form. This makes them quite unique!

About one-fourth of all discovered galaxies are irregular types.

They are typically small and likely collapsed with larger galaxies in the past, explaining why they come in various forms.

Support us on Patreon! Become a Galactic Patron and get benefits for your support.

JOIN PATREON

GALAXY Astrophotography Resources

Learn more about how to photograph a galaxy by reading one of our posts below. We explain what gear is optimal to use for galaxy photography, how much time to spend, and provide acquisition details for your reference.