Elliptical Galaxies

Part of Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Hall of the Universe.

AMNH/D. Finnin

Location

Lower Level

Exhibition Text

Elliptical galaxies have smooth, rounded shapes because the orbits of their stars are oriented in all directions. They contain little gas and dust, and no young stars. Like spiral galaxies, elliptical galaxies are surrounded by globular star clusters and dark matter.

For Educators

Topic: Astronomy

Subtopic: Galaxies