Whirlpool Gallaxy

Photograph information

Telescope : LX200 12 

Composite of 3 photos 

Superia X-tra 800 F10 75 min auto guided with 216 XT

PJ400 F6.3 45min + 45 min manual guide

Object Information:

M51 (NGC 5194) or The Whirlpool Galaxy is the finest face on spiral galaxy of the northern hemisphere and is located southwest from the tip of the Big Dipper's in the constellation Canes Venatici. Its distance estimated about 15 million light years away. Next to M51 lies the companion galaxy, NGC 5195. Both galaxies are physically related and seems as one extended  arms from M51 to drag down the companion galaxy .

 M51 is about 10-15' in diameter, with a bright center and rather easily seen spiral arms. While both galaxy's  have bright center and you can easily observe them  you'll need a large telescope and a fine evening to enjoy its delicate detail and spiral arms. In small scopes these galaxies appear as a misty patch which defined star like points marking the core of each galaxy. 

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