a galaxy that is undergoing a sudden burst of star formation
a galaxy undergoing an episode of very active star formation
A bright galaxy in which many new stars are forming.
Galaxy in which a violent event, such as near-collision, has caused a sudden, intense burst of star formation in the recent past. [More Info: Field Guide
A starburst galaxy is a bright, blue-glowing galaxy that has a high rate of star formation (sometimes, the star-formation area is only at the core of the galaxy, and these galaxies are called nuclear starbursts). This type of galaxy is filled with glowing hydrogen gas clouds, dense interstellar dust, and many, hot, newly-formed stars. These galaxies have strong radio emissions that are the remnants of recent supernovas. Starburst galaxies were formed by violent gravitational encounters, like near-collisions of nearby galaxies. Examples of starburst galaxies include NGC 253 and the barred spiral galaxy NGC 1808. Starburst galaxies may be related to active galactic nuclei.
A galaxy undergoing an extremely high rate of star formation. Starburst galaxies contain massive, deeply embedded stars that are among the youngest stars observed.
A starburst galaxy is a galaxy in the process of an exceptionally high rate of star formation, compared to the usual star formation rate seen in most galaxies. Normal galaxies also form stars, but at a much lower rate. Galaxies are often observed to have a burst of star formation after a collision or close encounter between two galaxies.