Most detailed ever 3D map of Milky Way shows 'warped' shape

Our galaxy is like a distorted disc, study based on Cepheid stars confirms

The most detailed three-dimensional map yet of the Milky Way has been revealed, showing that our galaxy is not a flat disc but has a "warped" shape like a fascinator hat or a vinyl record that has been left in the sun.

"The stars 60,000 light years away from the Milky Way's centre are as far as 4,500 [light years] above or below the galactic plane - this is a big percentage," said Dr Dorota Skowron of the University of Warsaw, first author of the latest research.