Messier 81, Messier 82 and supernova SN 2014J: an image
Messier 81 and Messier 82, the latter hosting supernova SN 2014J
The recently discovered supernova SN 2014J is hosted by the well-known irregular galaxy Messier 82. This cosmic island, about 12 millions of light years from us, is making a very beautiful couple with Messier 81, a very elegant spiral galaxy. Both M81 and M82 were discovered by Bode in 1774.
On 24 Feb. 2014, we used the Planewave 17 robotic unit to capture a two-fields mosaic covering both the galaxies. It was just a test, so we did a couple of images per field, each integrated for 300 seconds. The result is above and shows such a beautiful couple suspended in space and time, with the supernova shining in M82
Support The Virtual Telescope Project!
Support us! Please, donate and receive an EXCLUSIVE, hi-quality image of the record-setting 27 July 2018 total lunar eclipse above the Colosseum and many more pictures, specifically made for supporters like you!
