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The Milky Way in the constellation of Scorpius
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The Milky Way in the constellation of Scorpius
Optical photograph of the dense star clouds of the Milky Way in the constellation of Scorpius. Our galaxy, the Milky Way, has a flattened, spiral structure and contains an estimated 100 billion stars. The disc is about 99, 000 light years across and the Sun lies within the Orion spiral arm at a distance of about 33, 000 light years from the centre. Viewed from Earth, the Milky Way appears as a dense band of stars encircling the sky, the effect of looking out along the plane of the disc. The patchy appearance of the Milky Way is due to interstellar dust obscuring some of the more distant stars
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6443763
© JOHN SANFORD/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Cosmology Galactic Galaxy Milky Way Scorpius
EDITORS COMMENTS
This breathtaking print captures the awe-inspiring beauty of the Milky Way in the constellation of Scorpius. The dense star clouds within our galaxy, which is estimated to contain a staggering 100 billion stars, are showcased in this optical photograph. With its flattened, spiral structure, the Milky Way spans an impressive distance of about 99,000 light years across. Located within the Orion spiral arm at a distance of approximately 33,000 light years from the center, our Sun finds its place amidst this cosmic tapestry. From Earth's vantage point, we witness the Milky Way as a mesmerizing band of stars encircling our sky—a captivating effect resulting from gazing along the plane of its disc. However, interstellar dust adds an element of mystery and intrigue to this celestial masterpiece. Some more distant stars are obscured by these patches of dust, creating a patchy appearance that only enhances its allure. As you immerse yourself in this extraordinary image captured by Science Photo Library—showcasing science's profound connection with astronomy and cosmology—you can't help but marvel at how small we are in comparison to the vastness and complexity that lies beyond our planet.
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