Well the distances to individual stars does affect 'when' we see the light, but those distances will depend not on the dimensions of the galaxy, but the angle (orientation) of the galactic plane with respect to us (the observers).TShock said:when astrophysicists study the structure and rotation of galaxies do they take into account that we are seeing the stars in it where they were at different times, we aren't seeing them where they actually are now? Say stars on the closest edge are 100,000 light years away but stars on the furthest edge are 165,000 light years away so that the current structure of that galaxy would look different than what we are actually seeing? Does that make sense to anyone?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultra_Deep_Fieldfrom September 3, 2003 through January 16, 2004. It is the deepest image of the universe ever taken in visible light, looking back in time more than 13 billion years.
Galactic structure refers to the organization and arrangement of stars, gas, and dust within a galaxy. This includes the distribution of stars, the presence of spiral arms, and the overall shape of the galaxy.
Astrophysicists use a variety of observational and theoretical methods to study galactic structure. This includes observing the distribution and movement of stars, studying the properties of interstellar gas and dust, and using computer simulations to model the formation and evolution of galaxies.
Yes, astrophysicists can observe stars in their current position through telescopes and other instruments. However, due to the vast distances involved, the light we see from these stars may have taken many years to reach us, so we are essentially seeing them as they were in the past.
The structure of a galaxy, particularly the presence of spiral arms and other features, can influence the movement of stars. For example, in spiral galaxies, stars tend to orbit around the center of the galaxy within the spiral arms, while in elliptical galaxies, stars have more random orbits.
Studying galactic structure can provide insight into the formation and evolution of galaxies, as well as the processes that shape the universe as a whole. It can also help us understand the distribution and movement of stars and other celestial objects, and how they may be affected by factors such as dark matter and galactic collisions.