M81,M82 Galaxy

Larger Image

M81 and M82, Galaxy Group

M81 is a grand design spiral galaxy. It forms a physical pair with irregular galaxy M82. They are separated by 150,000 light years. This galaxy group is the nearest galaxy group to our own local group of galaxies. Our local group contains the Milky Way an d M31, Andromeda Galaxy.

M81 and M82 is one of the most popular sights in the spring sky. Here's a link to larger image.


Imaging information

Optics: Takahashi BRC250, NJP Temma2 Mount

Camera: SBIG STL-11000M, Astronomik Type2C LRGB filters,Ha filter

Exposure: L=80min(10minx8), R=20min, G=20min, B=20min, Ha=20min(HRGB:2x2binned)

Software: Stellaimage5, PhotoshopCS

Location: Yoshinaga town, Okayama Prefecture, 2007