M101 the mighty “Pinwheel” galaxy

One of the most impressive galaxies in Ursa Major, M101 is well-known to most observers, and can already be detected with binoculars.

This picture was taken under the dark skies of Grandpré, La Talma, in Northern France. SQM Values varied during the three capture nights between 21,20 and 21,40.

With the large Dobsonian telescopes (16″ to 20″) many details also visible in this picture could be detected.

In full 100% view (the original sensor resolution), many many small galaxies van be seen in the background. Most of the weakest ones are 20th to 21th magnitude.

Click on the image for a larger view!