Astronomy Photo: M51 Whirlpool Galaxy
My Observation:
Taken: 1 June 2024 at 10:45 PM EST
Equipment: Unistellar Equinox2
General Information:
- Messier Designation: M51
- Type: Spiral Galaxy
- Distance from Earth: 23,000,000 light years
The Whirlpool Galaxy, also known as Messier 51 (M51), is a classic spiral galaxy located approximately 23 million light-years away in the constellation Canes Venatici. This galaxy is famed for its striking appearance and well-defined structure, featuring prominent spiral arms that coil tightly around its luminous core. M51 is particularly noted for its grand design spiral structure, which is rich in star-forming regions, pinkish nebulae, and clusters of young, hot stars. It is often paired with a smaller companion galaxy, NGC 5195, which appears to be interacting with M51, enhancing its spiral structure through gravitational forces. This interaction has made M51 a popular subject in both professional astronomical research and amateur astrophotography, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of galaxy formation and evolution.
Additional Details from NASA:
Hubble Image:
https://science.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/m51-and-companion_0-jpg.webp?w=2048&format=webp
