Our solar system is situated in one of the outer spiral arms of the galaxy and surrounded by stars, why then do we see the milky way as a huge streak across the night sky.

Thank You
Paul R
UK

Our solar system is situated in one of the outer spiral arms of the galaxy and surrounded by stars, why then do we see the milky way as a huge streak across the night sky.

Thank You
Paul R
UK
Hi Paul,

Basically this is because you are looking at it, 'side on' so to speak. A bit like raising your dinner plate up to your eye level. You won't see much of your dinner, but you will see the plate as a thin white line.

A very rough analogy I know.