Glossary of Astronomical Terms/elliptical galaxy

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An elliptical galaxy is characterized by not having spiral arms as part of its internal structure. Its overall shape is, of course, elliptical, i.e., the sum of the distances from its two central points to any given point on its perimeter is a constant. Often the central points are so close together that the galaxy appears to be round. In the view beloow, an elliptical galaxy (lower left) and a spiral galaxy (upper right) can be seen in a single telescopic view.

Compare spiral galaxy.