M33: The Pinwheel Galaxy

Click on image for larger version.


 M33 is a very nearby spiral galaxy at a distance of 3 million light years away. It is close enough that under dark skies it can easily be seen in binoculars. In addition, its nearness makes the galaxy appear large in angular size on the night sky.

Equipment

76mm Televue Refractor (at f/6.3) with an ST10XME. (bottom image) 20in RC Optical Systems telescope
SBIG ST10XME CCD camera with color filter wheel

  • The Bottom image was taken through the 20in telescope and shows the central region (about 1/5 of the galaxy) at a relatively high resolution. Note the numerous red HII regions and bluish stellar associations.

    • Minimum credit line: (Top image)Adam Block/NOAO/AURA/NSF
    (Bottom Image) Adam Block/NOAO/AURA/NSF

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    Updated: 10/21/2004