Coordinate system · l, b
The Galactic Coordinate System
A coordinate system aligned with the Milky Way, measuring galactic longitude from the direction of the Galactic Centre along the galactic plane and galactic latitude above or below it. It is the natural frame for describing the structure of our Galaxy — spiral arms, the disk, and the distribution of stars and gas.
Highlights
- ›Longitude and latitude aligned with the plane of the Milky Way
Related systems & concepts
Across the reference systems
Knowledge connections
- Associated withThe Equatorial Coordinate System
- Associated withThe Milky Way
- Associated withThe Supergalactic Coordinate System
Sources
The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.
- IAUInternational Astronomical Union
Official naming, definitions, constellation boundaries, and astronomical nomenclature.