Hubble Observes Unclassifiable Galaxy NGC 4694

NGC 4694, located 54 million light-years away in the Virgo Cluster, presents a challenge for astronomers attempting to classify it, SciTech Daily reported yesterday.

This unique galaxy exhibits traits of both spiral and elliptical galaxies, featuring an armless disc yet actively forming stars in its core. Unlike typical elliptical galaxies, which lack the gas necessary for star formation, NGC 4694 is surrounded by a vast hydrogen cloud, fueling its stellar activity.

The galaxy’s chaotic dust structures suggest a tumultuous history, including a violent collision with a dwarf galaxy, VCC 2062. This interaction has resulted in NGC 4694 accreting gas from its smaller counterpart. Due to its distinctive characteristics, NGC 4694 is classified as a lenticular galaxy, bridging the gap between the two main types. Its ongoing star formation and complex formation history make it a fascinating subject for further study and observation.