M81 Galaxy in Ursa Major

[DarkerSky]

Jan 8, 2011. 16" x107 magnification. Really enjoyed sketching this one! M81 is such a classic DSO. Conditions were excellent last night for a sketch. It was high up and the moon had set. Used a neodymium filter for added contrast...

Notes: Elliptical disc with bright central core, which gradually faded out towards the edges. Fainter extension of light to the north (bottom) of galaxy disc that seemed to swing around westwards. This must be one of the galaxy's arms. Possibly detected a brighter notch of material in this arm too.

[chrisrnuttall]

Seb.

If i had any money I would have to go out and buy a HUGE telescope like yours. Spiral arms!?! with bright notches too! Lovely drawing.

[astrokat]

man thats nuts so much detail has been obs

i only ever see a blob i much prefer m82

[DarkerSky]

I think the conditions helped. Transparency was excellent and M81 was close to zenith. Toby, I agree - M82 is the bees knees for sure