Celestial hemisphere:  Northern  ·  Constellation: Ursa Major (UMa)  ·  Contains:  M 101  ·  NGC 5447  ·  NGC 5449  ·  NGC 5450  ·  NGC 5451  ·  NGC 5453  ·  NGC 5455  ·  NGC 5457  ·  NGC 5461  ·  NGC 5462  ·  NGC 5471  ·  NGC 5477  ·  Pinwheel galaxy
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M101 - keeping centred, Tom Gray
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M101 - keeping centred

Getting plate-solving status, please wait...
M101 - keeping centred, Tom Gray
Powered byPixInsight

M101 - keeping centred

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Description

M101 is a beautiful grand spiral galaxy, which we enjoy face on. A bright core, is wrapped around by spiral arms, containing over one trillion stars, and active blue star clouds. Situated 25m Ly away from us, this galaxy is still relatively young in the grand scheme.  A short integration shows off it’s beauty. 

Today I had the sad privilege of piping out a young man, who died in tragic circumstances - leaving family and friends devastated. It was nevertheless a joy to hear how much he was loved, and how many he had influenced in his short life. I dedicate this image to Felix. 

After such a challenging, and for many lonely, couple of years, it is so important we remain centred and connected to family and friends. It is not easy to face up to tragedy, but we must look out for each other and wrap arms of love around those who grieve.

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