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

Quote:

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Originally Posted by pauljsr

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

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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.