NGC 4707

NGC 4707 is an isolated Magellanic spiral galaxy located approximately 22 million light-years away in the constellation Canes Venatici. It is a member of the M94 Group, a galaxy group which also includes the Messier 94 (M94) galaxy. NGC 4707 is characterized by its loose, fragmented spiral arms and a relatively low surface brightness. Its designation as a "Magellanic spiral" indicates a resemblance to the Magellanic Clouds, satellite galaxies of the Milky Way, particularly in its irregular structure and disorganized spiral arm pattern. This type of galaxy often has a bar-like structure, though it is less pronounced in NGC 4707 compared to some other Magellanic spirals. The galaxy's isolation suggests that its evolution has been largely uninfluenced by interactions with other significant galaxies, which might contribute to its unique morphology. Astronomers study NGC 4707 to understand the processes of star formation and galactic evolution in relatively undisturbed environments.