Classifications of Objects in Space Part 5: Protoplanetary Nebulae, Planetary Nebulae, and Supernova Remnants

Because astronomy is an observation-based science, we need to carefully categorize the objects we see. As we explore the cosmos, we discover that not all objects are the same, and even then, some objects that appear the same at first glance differ greatly in the details.

Here, we will be discussing the classifications we give the objects we find.

A nebula is basically a large cloud of gas – in that, there are several different categories that define the type of nebula we are viewing.

Today, I wanted to talk about protoplanetary nebulae, planetary nebulae, and supernova remnants. Unlike the other nebulae we have talked about, these three objects are stages in stellar evolution forming a nebulous body in the process.

References, sources, and further reading can be found here: http://www.fromquarkstoquasars.com/classifications-of-objects-in-space-part-5-protoplanetary-nebulae-planetary-nebulae-and-supernova-remnants/