M51 • NGC 5194 • Whirlpool Galaxy
M51, the Whirlpool Galaxy, is one of the most iconic spiral galaxies in the night sky.
Its perfectly formed spiral arms and interaction with its companion galaxy NGC 5195
make it a favourite target for astrophotographers. The tidal forces between the two
galaxies enhance star formation in M51’s arms, producing bright knots of young, hot stars.
Dust lanes, HII regions, and the galaxy’s luminous core are beautifully visible in long
exposures. M51 is a textbook example of a grand‑design spiral galaxy and a highlight of
the spring sky.
Object Data
Messier:M51
NGC:NGC 5194
Also known as:Arp 85
Name:Whirlpool Galaxy
Type:Grand‑design spiral galaxy
Constellation:Canes Venatici
Size:11′ × 7′
Distance:23 million ly
Observation Data
Location:Pollux Observatory, Zuidlaren
Date:2015-04-27
Technical Data
Exposure time:Hα-10 x 180 sec
R-20 x 180 sec
G-20 x 180 sec
B-20 x 180 sec
Total: 3.5 h
R-20 x 180 sec
G-20 x 180 sec
B-20 x 180 sec
Total: 3.5 h
Telescope:Takahashi FSQ106 ED
Camera:ZWO ASI 1600mm Pro
Color palette:RGB+Ha
Filters:Astronomik 6 nm
Tags
galaxy, spiral, Canes Venatici, NGC