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(Created page with "== Overview == A reflection nebula is a type of nebula that is visible due to the scattering and reflection of starlight off the tiny dust particles within it. Unlike emission nebulae, which glow due to the ionization of their gas particles, reflection nebulae do not emit their own light. They are often seen in close proximity to hot, bright stars and are usually blue in color due to the scattering of short-wavelength light, a process known as Ray...") |
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A [[Reflection Nebula|reflection nebula]] is a type of nebula that is visible due to the scattering and reflection of starlight off the tiny dust particles within it. Unlike emission nebulae, which glow due to the ionization of their gas particles, reflection nebulae do not emit their own light. They are often seen in close proximity to hot, bright stars and are usually blue in color due to the scattering of short-wavelength light, a process known as [[Rayleigh Scattering|Rayleigh scattering]]. | A [[Reflection Nebula|reflection nebula]] is a type of nebula that is visible due to the scattering and reflection of starlight off the tiny dust particles within it. Unlike emission nebulae, which glow due to the ionization of their gas particles, reflection nebulae do not emit their own light. They are often seen in close proximity to hot, bright stars and are usually blue in color due to the scattering of short-wavelength light, a process known as [[Rayleigh Scattering|Rayleigh scattering]]. | ||
[[Image:Detail-145513.jpg|thumb|center|A wide field view of a blue reflection nebula, with a bright star at its center and surrounded by darker areas of space.|class=only_on_mobile]] | |||
[[Image:Detail-145514.jpg|thumb|center|A wide field view of a blue reflection nebula, with a bright star at its center and surrounded by darker areas of space.|class=only_on_desktop]] | |||
== Formation and Composition == | == Formation and Composition == | ||