The Whirlpool Galaxy is an interacting spiral galaxy that is estimated to be 23 ±4 million light-years from the Milky Way Galaxy in the constellation Canes Venatici. The galaxy and its companion, NGC 5195, are easily observed by amateur astronomers, and the pair may even be seen with binoculars. It was discovered on October 13, 1773, by French astronomer Charles Messier.Photo: NASA/ESA