The Milky Way galaxy is warped due to the influence of its dark matter halo, an invisible mass surrounding the galaxy that affects its shape and rotation. This discovery helps explain the peculiar warp observed in our galaxy and offers new insights into the complex relationship between visible matter and dark matter. Researchers used data from the European Space Agency's Gaia satellite to map the positions and movements of stars, revealing how dark matter influences the Milky Way's structure.
By analyzing this data, scientists gained a clearer understanding of how the dark matter halo impacts the galaxy. This information is crucial for developing more accurate models of the Milky Way's formation and evolution. The warp is not just a curiosity but a significant clue about the unseen forces shaping our galaxy.
Source: Space