Scale Model Builder August 25, 2026

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Wood & Plastic Models, Astrophotography

M51 – NGC 5194 – Whirlpool Galaxy

The Whirlpool Galaxy, also known as Messier 51, and NGC 5194, is an interacting grand-design spiral galaxy with a Seyfert 2 active galactic nucleus. It lies in the constellation Canes Venatici, and was the first galaxy to be classified as a spiral galaxy. Its distance is estimated to be 23 million light-years away from Earth.

The galaxy and its companion, NGC 5195, are easily observed by amateur astronomers, and the two galaxies may be seen with binoculars. The Whirlpool Galaxy has been extensively observed by professional astronomers, who study it to understand galaxy structure (particularly structure associated with the spiral arms) and galaxy interactions. (Wikipedia)

Date: 6/28/19 & 5/23/20
Exposure = 60s x 64 (6/28/19)
                 60s x 289 (5/23/20)
Total exposure time 2 h 58m
Binning = 1×1
Gain = 120
Camera Temperature = 0 deg C
Filter = UV/IR FILTER 6/28/19
STC Astro Duo-Narrowband Filter 5/23/20
Camera = ASI294MC PRO in Hyperstar position