October 26, 2022
Missouri born astronomer, Edwin Hubble categorized galaxies into 3 main types including: spiral, elliptical, and irregular. Our galaxy, the Milky Way is a barred spiral galaxy. Neighboring galaxy Messier 31 is a spiral galaxy which can be found over head at 10 pm in the constellation Andromeda.
These images show examples of the three original classifications of galaxies as defined by Edwin Hubble. On the left, a spiral galaxy (IC1954). In the middle, an elliptical galaxy (NGC 1316). On the right, an irregular galaxy (NGC 1427A). Although these are still the primary categories scientists use today, there are many subcategories and exceptions. Image credit left: ESA/Hubble/NASA/J. Lee/PHANGS-HST Team, middle: ESO, right: NASA/ESA/Hubble Heritage Team (STScI/AURA)