Secrets of the Whirlpool Galaxy

Year 2016Episode 530 minJuni 12, 2016
Secrets of the Whirlpool Galaxy

The Sky at Night focuses its attention on M51 aka the Whirlpool Galaxy. Sitting approximately 30 million light years from Earth, this spiral galaxy was discovered in 1773 by the French astronomer Charles Messier. It is thought to have been the inspiration behind the swirling patterns of van Gogh's Starry Night. June 1st has been declared Whirlpool Galaxy Day. On this one day we will be aiming as many telescopes as possible at the galaxy. Images will be taken by optical and infra-red telescopes on top of volcanoes in Hawaii and La Palma, the radio signature will be captured at the Mullard Radio Astronomy Observatory in Cambridge, and in orbit the Swift space telescope will aim its ultraviolet and X-ray sensors at the galaxy. By examining the galaxy at as many magnifications and wavelengths as possible the programme will build up a portrait of this galaxy - unlocking the secrets of the formation of the spiral arms and revealing how they have triggered a wave of intense star formation.

Secrets of the Whirlpool Galaxy has aired on Juni 12, 2016 at 22:00
Previous EpisodeNext Episode

Trailer

We do not have any trailers for this episode

Recently Updated Shows

Recently updated shows that might be of your interest.
The Loud House
Running

The Loud House

Welcome to the Loud House, where life can get pretty crazy. One boy, TEN girls?! Lincoln Loud wouldn't change it for the world!

Quarterback
Running

Quarterback

Go inside the huddle and into the homes of Patrick Mahomes, Kirk Cousins, and Marcus Mariota in this candid docuseries following their 2022-23 NFL season.

GenreSports
Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
Running

Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives

With roadside diners, vintage drive-ins and out-of-the-way "dives" enjoying a resurgence of hipness among foodies, host Guy Fieri travels across America in search of some of the best "greasy spoon" eateries. The restaurants that Guy visits are usually well-known among locals and other people in the region. While at each location, Fieri talks to the staff as well as the customers to get their thoughts on the food. Many episodes feature eateries that are connected by a common thread, such as burgers or comfort foods but its all here on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

GenreFood, Travel
Bachelor in Paradise
Running

Bachelor in Paradise

Some of The Bachelor's biggest stars and villains are back. They all left The Bachelor or The Bachelorette with broken hearts, but now they know what it really takes to find love, and on Bachelor in Paradise they'll get a second chance to find their soul mates. Contestants will live together in an isolated romantic paradise in Mexico and explore new romantic relationships.

GenreRomance
The Night Manager
Running

The Night Manager

Drama series based on the John le Carré novel. A hotel night manager is recruited by a government agent to infiltrate the inner circle of a ruthless arms dealer.