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| Description | NGC | Magnitude | Right Ascension | Declination |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy in Canes Venatici | 5194 | 8 | 13 hours 28 minutes | 47 degrees 27 minutes |
While the Whirlpool Galaxy is officially within the border of the constellation Canes Venatici, it may be found not far from the end of the Big Dipper’s handle. Looking at the Whirlpool Galaxy gives us one of the few opportunities to see a galaxy similar to our own directly head–on with its massive arms splayed outwards. Appearing to the side of M51 is a smaller appearing but more massive irregularly shaped galaxy designated NGC 5195. But the Whirlpool Galaxy and its companion are sometimes visible through 7 x 50 binoculars. They are located about 15,000,000 light years from us.
With a telescope you might be able to detect the dark lanes of dust that give a hint of the Whirlpool Galaxy's spiral pattern. M51 has a distinct advantage over many other galaxies. Although it is quite dim, it is also located high in the sky for Northern Hemisphere skygazers. A moonless night, when M51 is close to the sky's zenith, may provide some surprisingly good viewing.