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BFern
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Why is it easier to measure overall structure of Andromeda Galaxy than to measure Milky Way Galaxy?
Because we can see the whole thing in visable light, and take neat photos, while it takes Radio and IR imaging to see through the dust and gasses blocking our view of most of our own Milky Way. Because we have to "see" our own galaxy edge-on, no neat spiral structure; we are in it.Originally posted by BFern
Why is it easier to measure overall structure of Andromeda Galaxy than to measure Milky Way Galaxy?
To add, and just for someone to look up if interested, somewhere on the web you can find an unbelievable photo of the giant elliptical galaxy M87. They say our Milky Way has about 150-200 Globular Clusters (I think more), but the photo of M87 shows good detail in the galaxy and ~10,000 (yes, ten thousand) globular clusters in the halo.Originally posted by Phobos
Welcome to Physics Forums, BFern!
Note that it's easier to see Andromeda's overall structure, but harder to see the internal details (because it's so far away).
The Andromeda Galaxy is the closest spiral galaxy to our own Milky Way, making it easier for us to study and observe compared to other galaxies that are farther away.
The Andromeda Galaxy has a relatively large size and brightness, making it easier to observe and collect data on its structure compared to smaller and dimmer galaxies.
Celestial objects such as stars and planets are much smaller and have less complex structures compared to galaxies, making it easier for scientists to gather accurate measurements and data on the overall structure of Andromeda Galaxy.
The Andromeda Galaxy is relatively close to our own galaxy, which allows for more detailed and precise observations compared to other galaxies with similar sizes that are farther away.
The Andromeda Galaxy's close proximity to our own galaxy also allows for more detailed and high-resolution images to be taken, making it easier to measure the overall structure compared to other galaxies with similar brightness that are farther away.