Cigar Galaxy (M82)

The prototype starburst galaxy, forging stars ten times faster than the Milky Way after brushing M81.

Core Principles & Analysis

• Its central starburst was triggered by the gravitational encounter with neighboring M81.
• A superwind of ionized gas streams thousands of light-years out along its minor axis.
• SN 2014J here was the closest Type Ia supernova in over four decades.

Specifications & Metrics

• GALAXY TYPE: Edge-on starburst
• DISTANCE: 12 million light-years
• DIAMETER: ~37,000 light-years