For decades, scientists have tried to unravel the spiral architecture of the Milky Way, but so far there have been conflicting results. While some mappings have proposed the existence of four spiral arms in our galaxy, the new study presents an alternative perspective.
An ongoing discussion between astronomersabout the structure of the Milky Way gained another intriguing chapter. According to a new study published in the renowned scientific journal The Astrophysical Journal, researchers suggest that our galaxy only has two main arms, challenging the established theory that there are four arms different.
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Studying the stars to understand the galaxy
In the 1950s, William W. Morgan and colleagues studied the Milky Way's spiral arms, mapping it based on stellar distances. These measurements remain fundamental to our understanding of the galaxy.
Initially, they identified three spiral arms, but realized that measurements of the hydrogen clouds were unreliable. Currently, scientists recognize four main arms: Sagittarius, Orion, Perseus and Norma-Cygnus, ordered by proximity to the galactic center.
However, there are differing theories, suggesting the possibility of just two main arms or even previously unidentified arms.
Contrary to previous views, scientists have identified that Carina's arm is separate from Sagittarius, or at least not connected due to galactic evolution.
In addition, several other spiral arms have been found in the outer region of our galaxy, including the Outer, Perseus, Local, Carina, and Sagittarius arms. This information challenges the traditional view of just four spiral arms.
What does this discovery mean?
Scientists have discovered that our galaxy has many spiral arms that bifurcate or break apart. This revelation was made by observing giant stars and areas with many clouds of hydrogen.
However, it is still unclear whether the outer arm is connected to the inner arms or if Carina is connected to Sagittarius.
More research is needed to confirm or disprove these conclusions, but the possibility that our galaxy is a little different than we imagined is exciting.