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The Question

(Submitted August 27, 2003)

Where (is it presumed) within the Milky Way is the Solar System located?

The Answer

The Solar System has been measured to be about 28,000 light years from the center of the galaxy, and about 20 light years above the galaxy's equatorial plane. It is within the "Orion" spiral arm.

There is a picture of it's position on the following page:
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/astronomy/solarsystem/where.shtml

We hope this helps!

Barbara & Ilana
For the Ask an Astrophysicist team

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