From the November 2008 issue

In what direction and at what speed is the solar system moving through the Milky Way?

Sayed Alawi, Anaheim, California
By | Published: November 24, 2008 | Last updated on May 18, 2023

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Sun exhibits a velocity of 16,000 mph (25,200 km/h) relative to the average rotational motion within the galaxy.
  • The Sun's velocity towards the galactic center is measured at 22,000 mph (36,000 km/h).
  • A vertical velocity component of 11,000 mph (18,000 km/h) is observed for the Sun's motion within the galaxy.
  • These velocities represent the Sun's movement within the galactic context, exceeding the average galactic rotation speed.
Key takeaways sponsored by The Space Store
Compared to the average motion, the Sun appears to move a little faster — 16,000 mph (25,200 km/h) — than the general rotation. It’s moving toward the galactic center at 22,000 mph (36,000 km/h) and slightly upward at 11,000 mph (18,000 km/h).

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