Magnificent Galaxy Messier 86

Located in the constellation Virgo, galaxy Messier 86 (M86) is situated near the heart of the large Virgo cluster of galaxies. Astronomers classify it either an elliptical or a lenticular galaxy (a cross between an elliptical and spiral). This Hubble image is a combination of exposures taken in near-infrared and visible light using the Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2 and the Advanced Camera for Surveys. While showcasing only about half the galaxy, it includes the bright central nucleus and a portion of its immense surrounding halo. The image also reveals some of M86’s estimated 3,800 globular clusters, seen as bright specks of light. The majority of the galaxies in the Virgo cluster are receding from the Milky Way. M86, however, is moving toward our galaxy. This is because M86 is located on the far side of the Virgo cluster from us and is moving toward the center of the cluster.