Supercomputer simulation shows 100 undiscovered galaxies may orbit the Milky Way

The Milky Way surrounded by satellite galaxies, as simulated by Acquarius-A-L1. (Image credit: Aquarius simulations, Virgo Consortium/Dr Mark Lovell.)

Researchers say the Milky Way may be surrounded by many as-yet-undiscovered satellite galaxies.

Using high-resolution simulations of our galaxy's dark matter—the invisible substance that shapes the large-scale structure of the Universe—and cutting-edge mathematical models, cosmologists suggest that there may be more than 100 additional satellite galaxies orbiting our galaxy, in addition to those already known.

If these galaxies are detected by telescopes, it could confirm the standard model of cosmology, the prevailing theory of our universe that explains how galaxies form. The scientists presented their results on July 11 at the Royal Astronomical Society's National Astronomy Meeting in Durham, England.