We Had a Name for ‘Galaxies’ before We Knew They Existed

Scientific AmericanFriday, November 14, 2025 at 11:45:00 AM
NeutralScience
Centuries before the existence of galaxies was confirmed, astronomers referred to them as 'spiral nebulas.' This historical term has since become obsolete but continues to cause confusion among both the public and scholars. The term reflects early astronomical observations and the evolving understanding of the universe, highlighting the progression of scientific knowledge over time.
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