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Whirlpool Galaxy

Whirlpool Galaxy spiral

Whirlpool Galaxy, also known as the Messier 51, is located in the constellation Canes Venatici, and is best seen in spring.

Whirlpool Galaxy is magnitude 8.4, is 23 million light-years away, and is 11.2' x 6.9' in size. For reference, the full moon is 30' (arc minutes) or 0.5° in size.

      1. Name:
      2. Whirlpool Galaxy
      1. Alt Name:
      2. Messier 51
      1. Type:
      2. spiral
      1. Magnitude (m):
      2. 8.4
      1. Distance (Mly):
      2. 23 Mly
      1. Size:
      2. 11.2' x 6.9''
      1. NGC:
      2. 5194
      1. Messier #:
      2. M51

    * One can see up to magnitude 7-8 objects with perfect eyes under ideal dark sky conditions.



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