HUBBLE ATLAS
X structure at core of M51 whirlpool galaxy (IRAS 13277+4727 , M 51 , Messier 51 , NGC 5194 , Whirlpool Galaxy) — image from the Hubble Space Telescope

Galaxies

X structure at core of M51 whirlpool galaxy

June 8, 1992 · ESA/Hubble · IRAS 13277+4727 , M 51 , Messier 51 , NGC 5194 , Whirlpool Galaxy

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(four-frame comparison)

Hubble Space Telescope provides a detailed look at the core of the giant spiral galaxy M51. These images, taken at different wavelengths of light, reveal complex structure and detail in the galaxy's core, which is thought to hide a massive black hole .