GALAXIES
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    irregular galaxy

    NGC 4490
    The irregular galaxy NGC 4490. Image courtesy Richard Crisp
    A galaxy, with a poorly-defined structure, that falls outside the categories of disk galaxy or elliptical galaxy. Two main types are recognized in the Hubble classification scheme. Type Irr I galaxies are less massive (108 to 1010 solar masses) than large ellipticals or spirals and often have a high gas content and show evidence of extensive star formation. Type Irr II galaxies make up a catchall group that may, in some cases, include interacting and merging systems.

    Small irregular galaxies that appear to be completely non-uniform in shape are known as dwarf irregular galaxies.

    A nearby example of an irregular galaxy is the Sagittarius Dwarf Irregular (SagDIG).


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