M89

M89 = NGC4552 ( 12h 35.7m +12°33´, 9.8 mag. )
This elliptical galaxy in Virgo was discovered by Messier on March 18, 1781. It is located 53' NW of M58 (see Virgo Cluster Map and the detailed chart below).

M89
Credit: DSS
A Toomre Sequence illustrating the merger process.
In the first image of the Toomre sequence shown above, two galaxies (NGC5426/5427) approach each other for the first time.

M89 is also a member of the incredible Virgo cluster of galaxies. This is an elliptical galaxy and is almost exactly circular in appearance. It is not known if it is actually circular in shape or if it is an elliptical in shape viewed end-on.

M89: small elliptical, resembling M87 but fainter.
M90: nice spiral in same region as M89.
M104: The Sombrero Galaxy. Truly magnificent, this galaxy is isolated from the rest (although apparently is still a member of the Virgo Cluster).

M60 (elliptical galaxy)
M61 (spiral galaxy)
M84 (elliptical galaxy)
M86 (elliptical galaxy)
M87 Virgo A (elliptical galaxy)
M89 (elliptical galaxy)
M90 (spiral galaxy)
M104 The Sombrero Galaxy (spiral galaxy) ...