M 82 is an irregular galaxy 12.10 million light-years from the Sun, in Ursa Major. Its light has travelled 12.10 million years to reach us.
Fly there in 3D| Also known as | NGC 3034, UGC 5322, MCG 12-10-11 |
| Type | Irregular |
| Distance | 12.10 million light-years (NED-1D average) |
| Radius | 19,710 light-years |
| Absolute magnitude | -18.64 |
| Constellation | Ursa Major |
| Position (J2000) | RA 148.9755°, Dec 69.6831° |
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 39,420 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).