| galactic coordinates |
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A latitude and longitude coordinate system that takes the galactic plane as its equator and the galactic centre (RA 17h 42.4m, Dec. -28° 55') as the zero point of longitude measurement. Galactic coordinates are used mainly in studies where the spatial distribution of objects within our Galaxy is of importance. For example, maps of the radio emission from hydrogen gas in the Milky Way are often plotted in this coordinate system. See also: galactic poles. |