Galactic structure
The Central Molecular Zone
The reservoir of dense molecular gas within a few hundred parsecs of the Galactic Centre — a fraction of the Galaxy's volume that holds a large share of its molecular material. Turbulent, magnetised, and forming stars under extreme conditions, it is a nearby laboratory for the hearts of other galaxies.
Galaxy, objects & concepts
Across the Galaxy
Knowledge connections
- Associated withThe Galactic Centre
- Associated withThe Galactic Centre
- Associated withMolecular Clouds
Sources
The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.
- NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration
Mission data, planetary science, space telescopes, and public-domain imagery.
Most NASA-produced imagery is in the public domain; individual items are checked for usage terms before publication.