Investigating the Milky Way

I came across a question on an FB status today: "What do other English speaking countries call the Milky Way?"

I have latched onto this question in much the same manner as the question was posed, in not-so-quiet desperation. I know this one. Milk in Irish is: Bainne, I wrote. The Way: is An Tra - so it would be logical to think that the answer is Bainne ar an Tra - or something similar. Not at all.

In ancient history, the Milky Way is regarded as a chain by which Lugh could raise the dead to heaven. This is also the name given to the sling which Lugh used to kill Balor. On occassion, referred to as Lugh's Chain.


The Milky Way:

In Spain: Compostela - Field of Stars

In Thailand - The Way of the White Elephant

In Vietnam - The Silver River

Japan - River of Heaven

Sanskrit - Mandakini (calm or unhurried) - my favourite

No matter whatever the Milky Way is named or whatever myths surround it
it remains a constant reassurance that as long as we are able to see it,
(petitioning the clouds on that one)
it will always be there for us as an impartial and beautiful constant.