Bode’s Galaxy (M81) and the Cigar Galaxy (M82) lie in the constellation Ursa Major the Great Bear. In addition to these standout objects, however, notice the vast amount of nebulosity in the region. That’s called the Integrated Flux Nebula.

Messier 81 (also known as NGC 3031 or Bode’s Galaxy) is a spiral galaxy about 12 million light-years away, with a diameter of 90,000 light years, about half the size of the Milky Way, in the constellation Ursa Major. Due to its proximity to Earth, large size, and active galactic nucleus (which harbors a 70 million M_☉ supermassive black hole), Messier 81 has been studied extensively by professional astronomers. The galaxy’s large size and relatively high brightness also makes it a popular target for amateur astronomers.