Astrophotography

Name: M51
Catalogue number: M51
Object type: Galaxy
Constellation name: Canes Venatici
Constellation common name: The Hunting Dogs
Constellation possessive form: Canum Venaticorum
RA (J2000): 13h 29.880m
Dec (J2000): 47° 12.615'
Ecliptic longitude: 175° 14.580'
Ecliptic latitude: 50° 56.861'
Galactic longitude: 104° 52.059'
Galactic latitude: 68° 32.818'
Distance from observer: 37.000 Mly
Apparent magnitude: 8.00
Angular size: 18 arcminutes
Description: The Whirlpool Galaxy is arguably the most impressive galaxy for amateur astronomers. It is easy to locate with binoculars as it lies just over 3 degrees northwest of Alkaid, the star at the end of the Big Dipper's handle. The Whirlpool is a "face-on" galaxy, making its spiral structure easy to observe. A telescope, dark skies and moderate power will begin to reveal the spiral arms. M51 has a bright central core but no stars can be resolved. The core likely contains a supermassive black hole. Of special interest is the bridge of nebulosity that connects M51 to its companion galaxy, NGC 5195. Recent research suggests that the gravitational pull of NGC 5195 is causing star formation in the Whirlpool Galaxy.

For more information on Messier 51 click here to go to the WikiSky pages.

Text and sky representation image from StarryNight Pro Plus
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