NGC 4742 is a barred spiral galaxy located approximately 60 million light-years away in the constellation Centaurus. It is part of the Centaurus Group, which contains several other galaxies. NGC 4742 has a diameter of about 50,000 light-years and is characterized by its bright central bar structure and spiral arms. Discovered by the astronomer John Herschel in 1834, NGC 4742 is notable for its relatively high surface brightness. Observations of this galaxy contribute to our understanding of galaxy formation and evolution, particularly in the context of interactions with nearby galaxies in its group.