CAPTION: WHIRLPOOL GALAXY
--------------------

File # GN5431 (P) Whirlpool galaxy

Stars forming in the Whirlpool Galaxy, M51, are seen as bright yellow in this infrared view taken by ISO. The spiral arms of the galaxy, 20 million light-years from earth, are highlighted by clouds of dust and gas opaque in visible light.

THIS PHOTOGRAPH MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT FEE FOR EDITORIAL PURPOSES ONLY. The credit line should read: photo ESA/ISO
--------------------