Date 2009	Location New Mexico Skies	Software CCDSoft	Mount Paramount ME	Guide STL-11000M
Optic RCOS 14.5"	Camera STL-11000M	Filter Astrodon L/R-G-B	Exposure 900 / 900s	Process Photoshop CS2

Billions and Billions.com/Bode's 'Nebula'

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Bode's Galaxy- M81

was discovered in 1774 by German astronomer Johann Elbert Bode.  That same night he also spotted its incredible neighbor M82.  At 12,000,000 light years, it is one of the more distant Messier objects.  A classic Sb spiral, I think it is one of the most beautiful galaxies in the heavens.  Tiny bluish Holmberg IX- an irregular dwarf galaxy is at 3 o'clock from M81.  Many thanks to Dr. Bill Caspe for allowing me to process this wonderful data acquired with Mike Rice at New Mexico Skies.  Click the image for a larger version or return to the Gallery