David, 104 is not only is it getting low, but it's not the easiest
galaxy to find for a newbie, unless he already knows about the
'stargate'and 4 star arrow asterisms that points toward the galaxy in
Corvus.
I would suggest and easier "DSO" for a newbie to find...say, globular
cluster M-4 just one degree west of Antares.
OR a brighter one, M-80, about halfway between Antares and Beta Scorpii.
FWIW,
Tom W.



David Nakamoto wrote:
Should add that, before it gets too low to the horizon (haven't checked
its position lately) try M104; I saw it from suburban skies in the 60s
through
a 60mm refractor. A 5 inch should star showing some sign of the shape of
the thing, although the dust lane might require an 8-inch or larger, and/or
darker skies.