two very large spiral shaped objects in the sky

Out of This Whirl: the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) and Companion Galaxy Caption The graceful, winding arms of the majestic spiral galaxy M51 (NGC 5194) appear like a grand spiral staircase sweeping through space. They are actually long lanes of stars and gas laced with dust. Credits NASA, ESA, S. Beckwith (STScI), and The Hubble Heritage Team (STScI/AURA)