The Whirlpool Galaxy is 37 million light years away and was not visible to viewing through the telescope. We knew we had it due to the precision used to locate M-51, so we went for it. After 4 practice images at very high ISO, we began to see it on the computer screen. We use Backyard EOS software. Very exciting for us, as we have wanted to get this for 2 years, but kept relying on our ability to view it. We just moved to SW Florida and captured this at a small park in our neighborhood that is remarkably dark. Enjoy!

Astrotech 80 EDT; tracking mount with two star alignment; modified Canon 60D and prime focus
26x3min light exposures and 10x3min darks

stacked in DSS and then processed in Photoshop