Entity: MILKY-WAY
The Milky Way is a spiral galaxy containing our solar system, visible as a faint luminous band in the night sky composed of approximately a trillion stars.
MILKY-WAY
Etymology
The term Milky Way originates from the Latin 'via lactea', meaning 'milky road'.
Definition
The Milky Way is a spiral galaxy containing our solar system, visible as a faint luminous band in the night sky composed of approximately a trillion stars, most of which are too distant to be seen individually.
Historical Context
Throughout history, the Milky Way has been a source of wonder and inspiration for various cultures, often associated with myths and legends.
Cultural Significance
The Milky Way holds cultural significance in many societies, symbolizing a pathway to the afterlife, a river of souls, or a celestial realm.
Related Concepts
- Galaxies
- Astronomy
- Celestial Bodies
See Also
- Andromeda Galaxy
- Solar System
- Constellations
A broad luminous irregular band of light that stretches completely around the celestial sphere and is caused by the light of myriads of faint stars.