What type of galaxy is the Milky Way?

The Milky Way is classified as a spiral galaxy, which is characterized by its flat, rotating disk containing stars, stellar remnants, and interstellar gas and dust, along with a central concentration of stars known as the bulge. The spiral arms of the Milky Way, where most of its young stars are located, extend outward from the center and are prominent features of this type of galaxy. The presence of these spiral arms and the unique structure of the Milky Way, including its disk and central bulge formed from various stellar formations, clearly align with the characteristics that define spiral galaxies. This classification helps astronomers understand the formation and evolution of our galaxy in the greater context of the universe.

In contrast, elliptical galaxies lack the defined structure of spiral arms and appear more three-dimensional, resembling an elongated sphere. Irregular galaxies do not fit into the traditional classifications of elliptical or spiral, often appearing chaotic in shape with no distinct features. Lenticular galaxies are an intermediate type between spiral and elliptical galaxies, possessing a central bulge but lacking the spiral arms typically associated with spiral galaxies. These differences in structure and composition are essential in classifying galaxies within the broader astrophysical framework.