NGC 4477

NGC 4477 is a barred lenticular galaxy located about 55 million light-years away in the constellation of Coma Berenices. NGC 4477 is classified as a type 2 Seyfert galaxy. The galaxy was discovered by astronomer William Herschel on April 8, 1784. NGC 4477 is a member of Markarian's Chain which forms part of the larger Virgo Cluster.

Physical characteristics

NGC 4477 has a very well-defined bar which is imbedded within an extensive lens-like envelope. It has a fairly sharp edge and is slightly enhanced near the rim, and is classified as a ring-like feature. Surrounding the ring, two broad, diffuse incomplete arcs appear to bracket the galaxy around the bar. It is suggested that NGC 4477 has a highly evolved double ring morphology. Also, both ring features are exceedingly washed out.