Face-on galaxy
A spiral galaxy is referred to as face on when its inclination is low (in the extreme case 0 °) and it is therefore seen "in top view". In face-on galaxies, the disk with the spiral arms and the central area ( bulge ) are clearly visible. For amateur astronomers, however, observation is difficult due to the low surface brightness . The opposite of face-on galaxies are edge-on galaxies , which are seen from the side.
Examples of face-on galaxies
Whirlpool galaxy |
Messier 101 |
NGC 6946 |
NGC 7742 |