NGC 4856 Group
A cluster of five galaxies in the Virgo II Cloud.
The NGC 4856 Group is a galactic cluster listed among the Virgo II Groups, also known as the Virgo II Cloud, Virgo Southern Extension, or the Virgo S Cloud. It is one of at least 100 clusters and individual galaxies stretching approximately 30 megalight-years off the southern edge of the Virgo Supercluster, located roughly 55 to 80 million light-years from the Solar System.
Quick Facts
- Ra
- 12 · 00 to 13 · 30
- Member No
- at least 100
- Parent
- Virgo Supercluster
- Distance
- 55 Mly to 80 Mly
- Other Names
- Virgo II Cloud · Virgo Southern Extension · Virgo S Cloud
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
The NGC 4856 Group is cataloged as one of the clusters within the Virgo II Groups, a series of at least 100 galactic clusters and individual galaxies that form the Virgo Southern Extension. This group contains five identified members: MCG-2-33-82, MCG-2-33-88, MCG-3-33-32, NGC 4856, and NGC 4984. The group lies at a distance of 55 to 80 million light-years from the Solar System, within a right ascension range of 12h 00m to 13h 30m. The entire Virgo II Cloud stretches approximately 30 megalight-years off the southern edge of the Virgo Supercluster.
Reader's Guide
The NGC 4856 Group is notable as a component of the Virgo II Groups, which collectively represent a significant extension of the Virgo Supercluster. Its inclusion in the source article highlights the structure of the Virgo Southern Extension, a region containing at least 100 clusters and individual galaxies. The group's five members—MCG-2-33-82, MCG-2-33-88, MCG-3-33-32, NGC 4856, and NGC 4984—are documented alongside other clusters such as the M61 Group, NGC 4697 Group, and NGC 4753 Group. The group's distance range of 55 to 80 million light-years places it within the broader context of the Virgo II Cloud, which spans about 30 megalight-years. Its legacy lies in contributing to the mapping of galaxy clustering in the southern Virgo region, as recorded in the reference compendium.
More in Galaxy Clusters and Groups, Part 2 1-24
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced