The Universe February 2014 | Page 19

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Reflection Nebulae

Reflection nebulae are illuminated by nearby stars, not by themselves. They are the brightest by newly formed stars, and often outshines the newly formed stars.

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Emission Nebulae

When the gases within the nebula are heated to ionization by a nearby star, the nebula emits its own light.

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Absorption Nebulae

All light that tries to pass through absorption nebulae is absorbed.

They are difficult to observe unless they are against a very bright background.

The Different Types of Nebulas in the Universe

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