Bode Galaxy

Was discovered in 1774 by German astronomer Johann Bode Elbert. That same night he also spotted its neighbor M82 incredible. At 12,000,000 light-years, it is one of the more distant objects Messier. 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. A fair amount of galactic cirrus can be seen in the field as well. Many thanks to Dr. Bill Caspe for allowing me to this wonderful process of data acquired with Mike Rice at New Mexico Skies. Click for a larger version or return to the Gallery