M99

M99 is one of many spiral galaxies in the Virgo Cluster. Our own galaxy, the Milky Way, resides on the outskirts of this collection of many thousand galaxies. Unlike our own galaxy, M99 is disturbed due to interactions with other massive galaxies nearby (not shown). It almost looks as if the spiral arms are being blown by some celestial wind from below. While this is not true, at a distance of 60 million light years this galaxy proudly displays bright blue and red star formation in the its spiral arms.

This image was taken as part of Advanced Observing Program (AOP) program at Kitt Peak Visitor Center during 2014.

Credit:

KPNO/NOIRLab/NSF/AURA/Adam Block

About the Image

Id:noao-m99block
Type:Observation
Release date:Feb. 24, 2014, 1:31 p.m.
Size:1460 x 2176 px

About the Object

Name:M99
Constellation:Coma Berenices
Category:Galaxies

Image Formats

Large JPEGLarge JPEG
383.9 KB
Screensize JPEGScreensize JPEG
180.7 KB

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Coordinates

ObjectValue
Position (RA):12 18 31.08
Position (Dec):14° 29' 27.70"
Field of view:8.24 x 12.31 arcminutes
Orientation:North is 22.3° left of vertical


Colors & filters

BandWave-lengthTele-scope
Optical
B
438 nmVisitor Center 0.5-meter Telescope
Other CCD
Optical
G
475 nmVisitor Center 0.5-meter Telescope
Other CCD
Optical
R
625 nmVisitor Center 0.5-meter Telescope
Other CCD
Optical
Broad Band
555 nmVisitor Center 0.5-meter Telescope
Other CCD