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M81 (Bode's Galaxy) is a large and bright spiral galaxy.
The distance from Earth is approximately 11.8 million light years (1 light year is 9.5 TRILLION kilometers!).
It was discovered in 1774. by astronomer Johann Elert Bode.
This galaxy is best visible from the end of winter to the end of spring.
It can be observed through binoculars and small telescopes, and, under very favorable conditions, with the naked eye. Next to it is the Cigar galaxy (M82).
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