Milky Way - As Seen from Earth

 

 

This image intrigued me by its sheer beauty. I am wondering if it was somehow computer enhanced. Is it really possible to see the Milky Way so vividly from our own planet?? If so, I definitely want to experience a hike like this within my lifetime!

This is a picture of the milky band of stars that form the spiral shaped galaxy we live in. This picture was taken from Bryce Canyon, Utah, a national park.
For me this picture raises questions such as: What are those black clouds of dust in the middle? How did our galaxy form? Why does it have a spiral shape? What is at the center? Is there intelligent life within our own galaxy?

Photo Source: http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap130601.html