M51, Whirlpool Galaxy

[AndyG]

Here's another take on M51, the Whirlpool Galaxy. I think I like this one better than last year's attempt. This one was shot at longer focal length (2000mm), and more exposure (about 17 hours).

Click image for higher resolution version. Image acquisition details here.

[Bruce D]

Even before I clicked on your post to open it I'm thinking "oh boy, here we go!"

That's beautiful Andy! I'm very impressed with how much of the smaller galaxy you captured... in fact area-wise it's almost as big as the larger galaxy. And I don't know that I've ever noticed that stream of matter trailing off towards 7 oclock before- well done!

[DonB]

Andy, I'm sorry but we have run out of adjectives to describe your work. Your talent in this area is - well- astronomical.

Don

[Pete]

A 10" RC huh? Man you're really into this deep. How do you ever manage setup/takedown Andy?

Pete

[Apollo XX]

I have never seen the arm bridging the two galaxies so well defined. Amazing!

Mike M.

[mrgizmo65]

Hey Andy, pictures like that belong in national geographic, the quality and detail are the best possible. Nice work.

[bluemax]

Andy, awesome image!

Thanks again for another great screen saver

Say Tom, when did you say that carpentry class was scheduled? There's not much sense continuing with astro-imaging after this

[BobSikes]

Wonderful!

BobS

[NGC7000]

I think Mike P was onto something tonight, Andy. I laughed at the time, but now that I've seen this I'm wondering if what he said about you taking these off the Hubble Website and posting them here might be true.

Your arrest is imminent.

Tom

[AndyG]

Thanks all for looking and for the encouraging words.