Messier 81, also known as NGC 3031, is a spiral galaxy in the constellation Ursa Major, very near to the asterism of the big dipper. The galaxy is located roughly 12 million light years from Earth. It was discovered by Johann Bode in 1774 and added to the Messier catalog in 1779, and is colloquially known as “Bode’s Galaxy”.

Image & Equipment Details:
Date: 12/26/17
LRGB Image, 245 Minutes total Integration
R: 10X300s, Bin 2X2
G: 10X300s, Bin 2X2
B: 10X300s, Bin 2X2
L: 19X300s, Bin 2X2

Calibrated with bias, flat, and dark frames
Processed in PixInsight
Temp: -45C (300s)

Imaging Scope: Explore Scientific 127CF Apochromatic Triplet
Imaging Camera: SBIG STF-8300M

Annotated Image: