M100

Click on image for larger version.

This spiral galaxy currently holds a unique distinction in that it is one of the furthest galaxies in which Cepheid variables have been detected. These special variable stars have a specific relationship between their period and brightness. Astronomers measure the periods of these stars to learn how bright they are. With this knowledge they can measure the distance to these stars. In general galaxies are so far away even the best telescopes in the world cannot resolve individual stars. However in some of our nearby galactic neighbors it is possible. From these measurements M100 is estimated to be 56 million light years away. Click HERE to see a Full Resolution image of M100.

Equipment

16in RC Optical Systems telescope Operating at f/8
Paramount ME Robotic Telescope Mount
SBIG ST10XME CCD camera with color filter wheel

L R G B color production was used to create this image.

Luminance = 120 minutes binned 1x1
 Red = 20 minutes binned 2x2
 Green = 20 minutes binned 2x2
 Blue = 20 minutes binned 2x2
  • The line beneath the galaxy is one of the unbiquitous asteroids that inhabit the ecliptic of the solar system. The line is the amount of motion (Earth + asteroid) in two hours of time.
  • Digital Development (DDP) via Maxim/DL was also used in order to display the the very dim and very bright details of the image simultaneously.

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    Minimum credit line: Curt and Sally King/Adam Block/NOAO/AURA/NSF

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    Updated: 3/8/2003