NGC 1232

NGC 1232 is a "Grand Design" spiral galaxy not unlike M101. However, in this case the spiral arms are curiously bent and not gently curved as is more typically the case. This is most likely due to gravitation interactions with its neighbor (on the top in this image). It is almost as if the structure of the central bar of the galaxy has somehow been morphed into the structure of the arms (wild speculation!). NGC 1232 is approximately 70 million light years away.

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