How can an observer identify an elliptical galaxy through a telescope?
Answer
It appears as a steady, fading gradient of light
Elliptical galaxies look consistent and featureless regardless of magnification. They do not show the textured appearance or bright nuclei often seen in spirals. Instead, they appear as a uniform, smooth blob of light that presents as a steady gradient, gradually fading from a brighter center to a dimmer edge with no sharp definition.

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Types of Galaxies in Space - Spiral, Elliptical, Irregular plus more
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