A stellar nursery is a region of space where new stars are forming. These nurseries are often found in molecular clouds, which are dense regions of gas and dust. The dust and gas in these clouds collapse under the force of gravity, forming new stars.
The term “stellar nursery” was first used by astronomer E.E. Barnard in 1917. He used it to describe the Orion Nebula, a region of active star formation that is easily visible to the naked eye. Barnard also discovered many other star-forming regions, including the Rho Ophiuchi cloud complex and the Taurus Molecular Cloud.
Today, we know of many stellar nurseries throughout our galaxy (and beyond). Some of the most famous include the Eagle Nebula (M16), the Lagoon Nebula (M8), and the Carina Nebula (NGC 3372). These nebulae are often spectacularly beautiful, with glowing gases and dark dust lanes creating stunning views for observers on Earth.
Not all star-forming regions are as easy to spot as these bright nebulae, however. Many stellar nurseries are hidden from view by intervening dust clouds. In some cases, only infrared or radio waves can penetrate these dusty veils, revealing the young stars within.