NGC 986

NGC 986 is a barred spiral galaxy located in the constellation Fornax. It is estimated to be approximately 56 million light-years away from Earth. The galaxy exhibits a well-defined bar structure and tightly wound spiral arms, indicative of a relatively mature spiral galaxy.

It was discovered by James Dunlop in 1826 and cataloged as entry 986 in the New General Catalogue (NGC).

NGC 986 is classified as a SAB(s)ab type galaxy in the De Vaucouleurs system. This classification indicates:

• S: A spiral galaxy.
• AB: A barred spiral galaxy, but with the bar structure less prominent than in a "SB" galaxy. The distinction between "SA" (unbarred) and "SB" (barred) is less clear.
• (s): The spiral arms originate directly from the ends of the bar structure.
• ab: Intermediate between Sa and Sb spiral galaxies. This implies the arms are more tightly wound than in Sb galaxies, and the central bulge is larger and more prominent.

Studies of NGC 986 reveal that it possesses a moderate amount of star formation activity, particularly within its spiral arms. This activity contributes to the galaxy's overall brightness and blue color. Further research on NGC 986 focuses on its star formation history, chemical composition, and interaction with the surrounding intergalactic medium.