Oort constants

Oort constants are parameters astronomers use to describe the large-scale motion of stars in our galaxy, the Milky Way. They help quantify the rotation and shear of the galaxy’s disk, specifically how stars move relative to the galactic center. Essentially, these constants measure the rate at which stars orbit the galaxy, how the galaxy's rotational velocity changes with distance from the center, and the overall shear in stellar motions. This information helps scientists understand the galaxy's structure, rotation pattern, and dynamic behavior, providing insights into the mass distribution and gravitational forces within the Milky Way.