Andromeda Galaxy is a spiral (Sb) galaxy 2.57 million light-years from the Sun, in Andromeda. Its light has travelled 2.57 million years to reach us.
Fly there in 3D| Also known as | M 31, NGC 224, UGC 454, MCG 7-2-16 |
| Type | Spiral (Sb) |
| Distance | 2.57 million light-years (NED-1D average) |
| Radius | 70,760 light-years |
| Absolute magnitude | -20.12 |
| Constellation | Andromeda |
| Position (J2000) | RA 10.6830°, Dec 41.2689° |
The light you see left 2.6 million years ago, when earlier kinds of human were making stone tools. At the speed of light, crossing its 141,520 light-years takes as many years.
In galaxy mode, press Local Universe and search for it on the map, or follow the link above: the autopilot flies there, and up close the galaxy is drawn to its catalogued size, shape and tilt (the stars and arms themselves are illustrative).