Back to Glossary

Planetary Nebula

An expanding shell of ionized gas ejected from a red giant star in the late stages of stellar evolution. Despite the name, it has no connection to planets. The glowing gas is illuminated by the hot core of the dying star.

Source: science.nasa.gov

APODs including "Planetary Nebula"

The Cat's Eye Nebula

The Cat's Eye Nebula

28/06/1995