Bode's Galaxy

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{{Galaxy | name = Bode's Galaxy | image = Image:Bode'sGalaxy.jpg Bode's Galaxy (M81) | epoch = J2000.0 | type = SA(s)b | ra = 09^h 55.6^m 32.9^s | dec = +69° 4' 55" | dist_ly = 12 million ly | z = -0.000140 | appmag_v = +6.93 | size_v = 26' × 14' | constellation name = Ursa Major | radius_ly = 36,000 ly | absmag_v = 13 | names = M81, NGC 3031 }}

Bode's Galaxy (also known as M81 or NGC 3031) is a spiral galaxy about 12 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major. It was first discovered by Johann Elert Bode in 1774 and is named in his honour. In 1993, a supernova (SN 1993J) of was observed in Bode's Galaxy.

Bode's Galaxy is believed to contain approximately 250 billion stars, making it slightly smaller than our own Milky Way Galaxy. It is one of the most striking examples of a grand design spiral galaxy, with near perfect arms spiraling into the very center.

Bode's Galaxy and its companion galaxy, the Cigar Galaxy or M82, are the most prominent members of the M81 group of galaxies. They are easily visible in the same field of view of most telescopes.

It has an apparent magnitude of 6.93, making it one of the brightest known galaxies. Under exceptional viewing conditions and truly dark skies in a remote location far from light pollution, it can be seen with the naked eye.

Image:BodesgalaxyM81.jpg

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