Galactic Structure

Galactic structure refers to how the different parts of a galaxy are arranged. Our galaxy, the Milky Way, features a central bulge of stars surrounded by a flat, rotating disk containing spiral arms composed of stars, gas, and dust. Encasing this is a more diffuse halo with older stars and globular clusters. These structures arise from gravitational forces shaping matter over billions of years and influence galaxy evolution. Understanding galactic structure helps scientists learn about the formation, behavior, and future development of galaxies throughout the universe.