images

Spiral galaxy M81 in infrared

by

NASA/JPL-Caltech/Novapix

Reference

a-gax30-31056

Date

2006-09-09

Located in the northern constellation of Ursa Major (which also includes the Big Dipper), this galaxy is easily visible through binoculars or a small telescope. M81 is located at a distance of 12 million light-years. These infrared images were obtained by Spitzer's infrared array camera. At these wavelengths, Spitzer sees the dust, rather than the stars, within the disc of silicates and carbonaceous grains. It is well-mixed with gas, which is best seen at radio wavelengths, to form the essential ingredients for future star formation.