What shape is the Milky Way Galaxy described as?

The Milky Way Galaxy is described as a spiral galaxy due to its distinctive structure, which includes a flat disk containing stars, gas, and dust, surrounded by a much fainter halo of dark matter, globular clusters, and individual stars. The spiral arms of the galaxy, which radiate outward from the center in a pinwheel-like formation, are especially prominent in several observations and contribute to the galaxy’s classification.

This shape facilitates the dynamic processes of star formation and the movement of stars and other galactic materials. In addition, the spiral structure allows astronomers to identify regions of active star formation, as they are often located along these arms. The definition of spiral galaxies includes not just the presence of spiral arms but also the overall disk-like shape, which distinguishes them from other galaxy types such as elliptical or irregular galaxies.

In contrast, circular and flat do not accurately encompass the complexity and detailed structure of the Milky Way, while elliptical pertains to a galaxy shape that is devoid of the distinct spiral arms characteristic of our galaxy.