Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)

thingiverse

This is a detailed model of the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51). Designed to make astronomy accessible to students who are visually impaired, it's part of the Tactile Universe project. The model utilizes a single-band image of a galaxy as a three-dimensional map where raised areas correspond to the amount of light emitted from that part of the galaxy. In this particular model, an SDSS g-band image is used, which captures blue light with a wavelength of approximately 475 nanometers. The blue light emanating from a galaxy reveals the location of hot and young stars within it. To learn more about astronomy through tactile experiences like this one, along with lesson plans and guides to support your learning, visit https://tactileuniverse.org/models/.