Barred spiral galaxies

Barred spiral galaxies are a common type of galaxy characterized by a central, elongated bar-shaped structure made of stars, from which spiral arms extend outward. The bar influences the movement of gas and stars within the galaxy, often fueling star formation along its length and in the spiral arms. These galaxies have a well-defined disk and spiral arms that wind around the center, with the bar acting as a dynamical feature that shapes the galaxy’s structure and evolution. Examples include our Milky Way galaxy.