What is a planetary nebula?
Quick Answer
A planetary nebula is a glowing shell of gas expelled by a dying Sun-like star. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with planets.
The Full Story
Planetary nebulae form when a low- to intermediate-mass star near the end of its life sheds its outer layers after swelling into a red giant. The hot core left behind emits ultraviolet light that makes the expelled gas glow. These structures are usually visible for only a short astronomical time, around tens of thousands of years. The name dates to early telescopic observers who thought these round objects looked like planets. The Ring Nebula is a famous example.
Key Facts
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Suggested video title for this topic:
"A star’s final puff: the beautiful nebula left behind after death"
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