Virgo Supercluster

Definition

The Virgo Supercluster is a massive collection of galaxy clusters that includes the Local Group, which houses the Milky Way. It spans about 110 million light-years and is centered around the Virgo Cluster of galaxies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Virgo Supercluster contains approximately 100 galaxy clusters or groups.
2. Its central cluster, the Virgo Cluster, is about 54 million light-years from Earth.
3. It plays a major role in the large-scale structure of the universe as part of the larger Laniakea Supercluster.
4. Our Local Group, which includes the Milky Way and Andromeda galaxies, is on the outskirts of the Virgo Supercluster.
5. The concept of superclusters helps astronomers understand galaxy distribution and cosmic structures on large scales.

Review Questions

Related terms

Local Group:

A galaxy group that includes the Milky Way, Andromeda, and about 54 other galaxies.

Virgo Cluster:

The central cluster in the Virgo Supercluster containing about 2,000 galaxies.

Laniakea Supercluster:

A larger supercluster that includes the Virgo Supercluster and spans over 520 million light-years.