Cosmic structure · ≈ 1,300 galaxies, ~54 million light-years away
The Virgo Cluster
The nearest large galaxy cluster, over a thousand galaxies bound together and centred on the giant elliptical M87. Its gravity draws the Local Group toward it, and it anchors our corner of the local supercluster.
Highlights
- ›The nearest great cluster, centred on M87
Examples & connections
Knowledge connections
- Associated withGalaxy Cluster
- Associated withMessier 87
Sources
The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.
- NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration
Mission data, planetary science, space telescopes, and public-domain imagery.
Most NASA-produced imagery is in the public domain; individual items are checked for usage terms before publication.