Dwarf galaxy

A dwarf galaxy is a small galaxy composed of up to several billion stars, a small number compared to the Milky Way's 200–400 billion stars. The Large Magellanic Cloud, which closely orbits the Milky Way and contains over 30 billion stars, is sometimes classified as a dwarf galaxy; others consider it a full-fledged galaxy. Dwarf galaxies' formation and activity are thought to be heavily influenced by interactions with larger galaxies. Astronomers identify numerous types of dwarf galaxies, based on their shape and composition.

Common dwarf galaxy types
Dwarf elliptical galaxy

Dwarf spheroidal galaxy

Dwarf irregular galaxy

Dwarf spiral galaxy

Magellanic type dwarfs

Blue compact dwarf galaxies

Ultra-compact dwarf galaxies