Galaxies

Discover general info!

What are they?

Galaxies are systems of stars, interstellar and dark matter bound togther by the gravitationa pull of their centers: supermassive black holes. There are 3 main types of galaxies.

Elliptical

These galaxies are characterized by their oval shape, low interstellar matter but elevated amount of older stars. The black hole of Messier 87, an ellpitical galaxy, is the first to be photographed.

Messier 87

Spiral

Spiral consists of a central concentration of stars, known as a bulge, and even brighter arms! Most galaxies, such as Andromeda, possess this shape.

Andromeda Galaxy

Irregular

Commonly small, this type does not have specific shape, thus a low wave density, making it an excellent ground for the study of star formation. The Small Magellanic Cloud is classified as such, also having a gas bridge to the Large Magellanic Cloud.

Small Magellanic Cloud

Milky Way

We live in the Milky way, a spiral galaxy, and its name originates from its appearrance perceived from Earth: a white line in the sky. The Solar System is located in the Orion Arm, one of the "calmest" areas within it. It's a miracle we ended up here with no obstacles to our development!