The Whirlpool Galaxy (also known as 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 understand galaxy structure (particularly structure associated with the spiral arms) and galaxy interactions.

Images by Simon Dawes

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Images by Kevin Langford

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Images by Roger Pickard

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Images by Keith Rickard

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Images By Julian Tworek

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Images by Andrew Wilson

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