MESSIER OBJECT 51 - THE
WHIRLPOOL GALAXY. Located in the constellation Canes Venatici approximately
37 million light years away. For some time, it was believed that the two
galaxies were connected, but that theory has fallen out of favor. However, astronomers
are pretty certain that M51's distinct spiral structure is the result of
gravitational interaction with the smaller companion galaxy NGC 5195.
Imaged with an ST-7ME attached
to an FS-102 working at f/8 on February 21st 2004 at Zodiac
Ranch Fort Davis, TX
