M 106 is a Seyfert Galaxy, which means it has an unusually active core which
emits large amounts of energy. This is probably evidence of a massive black
hole in its center. There are several other more distant galaxies visible in
this image, but M 106 is about 24 million light years from earth.

Image data:
Camera: Canon SBIG STXL-11002
Telescope: 12.5" Hyperion
Exposure: RGB = 90 minutes each; Lum = 3.75 hours