Galactic Nucleus
Galactic Core
An ellipsoidal mass of stars and interstellar matter that occupies the central regions of a spiral galaxy. In our own Galaxy, it is some 30,000 light years across, and is occupied primarily by older orange and red stars. There is evidence to suggest that a massive black hole lies in its central regions, and indeed this may be a common feature of spiral galaxies in general.

Location of the Galactic Centrepoint
If the Galactic Nucleus was visible from Earth, it would appear as a narrow ellipse stretching over some 42° between Ophiuchus and Scorpius. The central point of the Nucleus lies in Sagittarius, beyond the faint star 3 Sagittarii.
Location of the Galactic Nucleus
The Solar System lies in one of the outer arms of the Milky Way Galaxy, approximately 27,000 light years out from the galaxy's core.
Indexes
  • Main Index
  • Concepts Index
  • Related Entries
  • Kaus Australis
  • Milky Way
  • Sagittarius
  • Serpens
  • Taurus