NGC 4313

NGC 4313 is a lenticular galaxy located in the constellation Virgo. It is a member of the Virgo Cluster, a large cluster of galaxies within the Local Supercluster. Lenticular galaxies, classified as S0, possess characteristics intermediate between spiral and elliptical galaxies. They exhibit a bright central bulge and a disk-like structure, but lack prominent spiral arms.

NGC 4313 lies approximately 55 million light-years away from Earth. Its classification as a lenticular galaxy implies it has largely exhausted its supply of gas and dust, resulting in a diminished rate of star formation compared to spiral galaxies. However, some studies have indicated the presence of faint dust lanes within the galaxy, suggesting a possible past or ongoing interaction with another galaxy.

The galaxy was discovered on April 15, 1828, by the British astronomer John Herschel. It has been extensively studied as part of the broader effort to understand the dynamics and evolution of galaxies within the Virgo Cluster and lenticular galaxies in general. Its morphological features and membership in the Virgo Cluster make it a valuable object for astronomical research.