Andromeda Galaxy (Messier 31)

Galaxy Type: Barred Spiral

The Andromeda Galaxy is in a group of galaxies that include our own Milky Way simply known as “The Local Group” and close enough to be seen with the naked eye. The Milky Way and the Andromeda Galaxy are considered twins in their resemblance of each other. In fact, it is expected that both galaxies will eventually collide. The galaxy was cataloged by French astronomer Charles Messier in 1764 as part of his 101 fuzzy objects to avoid as he was comet chasing. The galaxy also gained the designation NGC 224 in the New General Catalogue.