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Whirlpool Galaxy
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Whirlpool Galaxy
Whirlpool Galaxy (M51, NGC 5194), visible light image. The Whirlpool galaxy is locked in a gravitational interaction with the smaller irregular galaxy NGC 5195 (left of M51). It is thought that NGC 5195 passed through the disc of M51 around 500 million years ago, then swung back through the disc to its present position behind M51 in the last 100 million years. M51 is around 50, 000 light years in diameter, around half the size of our Milky Way. These two galaxies are around 37 million light years from Earth, in the constellation Canes Venatici
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 1694843
© TONY & DAPHNE HALLAS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Astrophysical Astrophysics Canes Venatici Dust Lane Dust Lanes Galactic Galactic Nucleus Galaxy Interact Interacting Irregular Optical Spiral Arms Spiral Galaxy Telescope Universe Visible Light Face On Ngc 5194 Whirlpool Galaxy
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This breathtaking print captures the mesmerizing beauty of the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51, NGC 5194) in all its glory. Illuminated by visible light, this celestial wonder showcases a stunning galactic interaction between M51 and its smaller companion, NGC 5195. Locked in a gravitational dance, these two galaxies have been entwined for millions of years. It is believed that around 500 million years ago, NGC 5195 passed through the disc of M51 before swinging back to its current position behind it within the last 100 million years. With a diameter of approximately 50,000 light-years – half the size of our own Milky Way – M51 stands as an awe-inspiring testament to the vastness and grandeur of our universe. Situated about 37 million light-years away from Earth in the constellation Canes Venatici, this image unveils intricate details such as dust lanes and spiral arms that adorn M51's face-on view. The galactic nucleus shines brightly amidst swirling spiral patterns that stretch across space. Through this extraordinary photograph captured by Science Photo Library's telescope lens, we are reminded once again of humanity's insatiable curiosity about our cosmic surroundings. This remarkable portrayal invites us to marvel at nature's artistic prowess while igniting our imagination with thoughts about distant worlds and infinite possibilities beyond our own blue planet.
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