Science
Galaxies Explained: Our Cosmic Home
What is a galaxy? Discover these vast cosmic islands of stars, gas, and dark matter held together by gravity. Explore our own Milky Way and beyond.
What is it?
A galaxy is a vast system of stars, gas, dust, and dark matter bound by gravity. As the universe's fundamental building blocks, galaxies host millions to trillions of stars. Our home is the spiral-shaped Milky Way. Other types include elliptical (older and rounder) and irregular (shapeless) galaxies. These cosmic islands group together into clusters, forming the large-scale structure of the cosmos.
Why is it trending?
Galaxies are a trending topic thanks to the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), which is revealing the universe's earliest galaxies and challenging theories on their formation. These stunning discoveries spark global public interest. Research on galaxies is also central to solving modern physics' biggest mysteries, like dark matter and dark energy, keeping them in the scientific spotlight.
How does it affect people?
Studying galaxies helps answer where we come from. This research explains how stars and planets formed and drives technological innovation in telescopes and data science. On a personal level, the majestic beauty of galaxies inspires awe and curiosity about our place in the universe. It connects us to the cosmos and underscores the value of exploration and scientific discovery.