M53, M3, and NGC 4631 on May 03, 2006

M53 (NGC 5024).  Total integration time 122×15.0 sec = 30.5 min. M53 is 17.8 kpc from the Sun. The V magnitude of the horizontal branch is 16.8.  This is the inaugural image of my new Meade DSI Pro II CCD camera.

M3 (NGC 5272).  Total integration time 149×11.3 sec = 28 min. The box shows the extent of the image of M3 shown in the May 6 observing session. M3 is 10.4 kpc from the Sun. The V magnitude of the horizontal branch is 15.7.

NGC 4631.  Total integration time 243×15.0 sec = 61 min.