A “barred” spiral galaxy in Leo. Astronomers believe that the barred shape is a balancing feature employed when a galaxy undergoes destabilization due to the influence of another galaxy in its local group.

12 1/2″ Ritchey-Chretien Telescope with an ST8e/CFW8, F/7 LRGB (9/5min BW 3/5min 2×2 bin RGB)