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This stunning image was captured using the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI) on the James Webb Space Telescope. Unlike other spiral galaxies that feature irregular or fragmented spiral arms, grand-design spiral galaxies, such as M51, exhibit well-defined and prominent spiral arms.
M51, also known as NGC 5194, is approximately 27 million light-years away from Earth within the constellation Canes Venatici. It is engaged in a dynamic cosmic dance with its nearby companion, the dwarf galaxy NGC 5195. The lively interaction between these two celestial neighbours has made them one of the most extensively observed galaxy pairs in the night sky.
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