Date: May 25, 2007

Object: Whirlpool Galaxy; M51 and NGC5195

Description: The Whirlpool Galaxy is a well-known and popular galaxy which lies the Ursa Major. This was one of the first celestial objects observed as having a sprial structure. It's companion galaxy, NGC5195 is caught within M51's gravity. This will eventually cause these two galaxies to collide, making it a popular target for astronomers to observe.

Photo Credit: Rick Bearce

Location: City of Rocks State Park, New Mexico

Telescope: 9.25" Schmidt-Cassegrain OTA and a Vixen 102SS ED f6.5

Camera: Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT