 This loose collection of stars is actually a dwarf irregular galaxy called Holmberg-9. It resides just off the outer edge of M81. Holmberg-9 is of the so-called Magellanic type of galaxy, as its size and irregularity and structure are similar to the small Magellanic cloud. A close encounter with M81 may have triggered the new star formation that has occurred. By understanding how Holmberg-9 was formed, scientists hoped to understand their role as building blocks for larger galaxies.