Also known as Messier 51a, M51a, or NGC 5194, is an interacting grand
design spiral galaxy located at a distance of approximately 23 million
light-years in the constellation Canes Venatici. It is one of the most
famous spiral galaxies in the sky. The galaxy and its companion (NGC
5195) are easily observed by amateur astronomers, and the two galaxies
may even be seen with binoculars. The whirlpool galaxy is also a popular
target for professional astronomers, who study it to further
understanding of galaxy structure (particularly structure associated
with the spiral arms) and galaxy interactions.
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