NGC 4459


NGC 4459 is a lenticular galaxy located about 50 million light-years away in the constellation of Coma Berenices. NGC 4459 is also classified as a LINER galaxy. NGC 4459 was discovered by astronomer William Herschel on January 14, 1787. NGC 4459 is a member of the Virgo Cluster.

Physical characteristics

Dust disk

NGC 4459 has a central flocculent dust disk that surrounds an inner ring. Also, there appears to be evidence of ongoing star formation in the disk.

Super massive black hole

NGC 4459 has a supermassive black hole with an estimated mass of roughly 70 million suns. Its diameter is estimated to be around 2.87 astronomical units.
image of NGC 4459