The Whirlpool Galaxy

M51 and NGC 5195

The Whirlpool galaxy is a beautiful face-on spiral that has had a recent gravitational close call with its smaller neighbour, NGC 5195.

Takahashi Sky 90 at f/4.5
SBIG STL-4020M (self-guided)
Takahashi EM-200
Hutech LPS Filter
L:115, R:35, G:35, B:35 (5 minute subexposures)
Processed in Maxim/DL and Photoshop
Noel Carboni's Astronomy Tools Actions