M99 is 49 million lyrs away in Coma Berenices. The thick arms are alive with activity. Note the proliferation of pinkish HII regions scattered through them.

The bottom arm has been drawn away from the main body by an interaction long ago. There is some belief that it will “relax” with time, and return to a position nearer to the main body of the galaxy.

PlaneWave 12.5″ Astrograph with ZWO ASI 6200 camera, Astrodon filters and ASA gearless DDM-85 mount. F/8 LRGB (29/8min L, 5/8min RGB each, all 2×2 bin).