As far as we can see with our ever-improving telescopes, there are at least a hundred billion galaxies arrayed throughout the universe. Each, like the Milky Way, is an island galaxy containing billions of stars. This map uses graphic leaps of scales to show how our solar system fits within the vastness of the universe. The map also includes a universe timeline and a description of its evolution.
The map is encapsulated in heavy-duty 1.6 mil laminate which makes the paper much more durable and resistant to the swelling and shrinking caused by changes in humidity. Laminated maps can be framed without the need for glass, so the frames can be much lighter and less expensive.
