M 81 is a spiral (Sb) galaxy 12.01 million light-years from the Sun, in Ursa Major. Its light has travelled 12.01 million years to reach us.
Fly there in 3D| Also known as | NGC 3031, UGC 5318, MCG 12-10-10 |
| Type | Spiral (Sb) |
| Distance | 12.01 million light-years (NED-1D average) |
| Radius | 43,480 light-years |
| Absolute magnitude | -20.02 |
| Constellation | Ursa Major |
| Position (J2000) | RA 148.8870°, Dec 69.0672° |
The light you see left 12 million years ago, after the dinosaurs, when mammals spread across the Earth. At the speed of light, crossing its 86,960 light-years takes as many years.
In galaxy mode, press Local Universe and search for it on the map, or follow the link above: the autopilot flies there, and up close the galaxy is drawn to its catalogued size, shape and tilt (the stars and arms themselves are illustrative).