kääpiöepäsäännölliset

Kääpiöepäsäännölliset is a Finnish term that translates to "dwarf irregular galaxies." These are a type of dwarf galaxy characterized by their lack of a defined, regular shape, such as spiral or elliptical. Unlike their more structured counterparts, dwarf irregular galaxies do not possess a discernible spiral arm structure or a smooth, ellipsoidal distribution of stars. Their appearance is often patchy and chaotic, with star formation occurring in seemingly random pockets throughout the galaxy.

These galaxies are relatively small in terms of both mass and luminosity, containing significantly fewer stars than larger galaxies like our own Milky Way. Despite their diminutive size, dwarf irregulars can still be quite active in terms of star formation, sometimes exhibiting bursts of new star birth. Their irregular morphology is thought to be a result of various factors, including gravitational interactions with larger galaxies, internal turbulence, or simply a lack of sufficient mass to develop a more organized structure.

Astronomers study dwarf irregular galaxies to understand galaxy evolution, particularly the processes that shape smaller galactic systems. Their proximity to larger galaxies often makes them excellent probes of galactic interactions and the distribution of dark matter. Many dwarf irregular galaxies are satellites of larger galaxies, orbiting them and sometimes being tidally disrupted over time. Examples of dwarf irregular galaxies can be found in our own Local Group and in other galaxy clusters.