M84 and M86 in the Virgo Galaxy Cluster
Copyright 2001 Hap Griffin
Dominating this photo are the massive twin elliptical galaxies M86 and M84. Forming an almost perfect triangle with these is the spiral galaxy NGC 4328. This area of the sky is the heart of the Virgo cluster of galaxies which lies roughly 70 million light-years distant. It is interesting to note that the light arriving to us now from this group originated while the dinosaurs were still walking the earth.
This shot is of the western end of what is known as Markarian's Chain, a remarkable chain of more than a dozen galaxies extending towards the northeast, some of which are visible here. Elliptical galaxy NGC 4387 can be seen in the center of the triangle formed by M86, M84 and NGC 4328. Above M86 is a beautiful spiral NGC 4402. Below and to the left of NGC 4328 is the sprial galaxy NGC 4413, and to its upper left is elliptical galaxy NGC 4425. At the upper left are two galaxies, known as "The Eyes", spiral NGC 4438 and elliptical NGC 4435.
Date/Location:
February 26, 2001 Griffin/Hunter
Observatory Bethune, SC
Instrument: Meade f6.3 10" LX-200
Focal Ratio: Approx. f4 (utilizing focal reducer in GEG)
Guiding: Auto - SBIG ST4 through ST80 guidescope
Conditions: Visually clear
Weather: 40 F, calm
Film: Kodak Elite Chrome 200
Exposure: 1 x 45 minutes
Filters: None
Processing: Finished in Photoshop 5 and BGSmooth (3,30)