Galaxies

Milky Way

The Milky Way is the galaxy containing the Solar System.

Structure

Barred spiral galaxy

Viewpoint

Observed from within its disk

Understanding this entry

The pale band visible under dark skies is a line-of-sight view through many stars in the galactic disk. Dust blocks some visible light, so infrared and radio observations add information.

Further reading and reference: Topic reference ↗. Values and educational summaries are not a substitute for specialised advice.