Bode's Galaxy (M 81)

Bode's Galaxy (M 81) is a galaxy in the constellation Ursa Major, magnitude 6.9, 22′ × 11′ across.

A bright grand-design spiral in Ursa Major, visible in binoculars as an oval glow with M82 just over half a degree away — together one of the best galaxy pairs in the sky.

When and where to see it

It is best placed in the evening sky around March, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in February). It can be seen from everywhere north of 21°S and never sets north of 21°N.

At its highest it stands 71° up from 50°N, 56° up from 35°N, 21° up from the equator, below the horizon from 35°S.

Facts

Type

Galaxy

Constellation

Ursa Major

Designations

M 81, NGC 3031

Magnitude

6.9

Apparent size

22′ × 11′

Position

RA 9h 55.6m, Dec +69° 4′ (J2000)

Open AstroPilot to see when Bode's Galaxy (M 81) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.