ScienceJune 16, 2026
nebula
/ˈnɛb.jə.lə/
Definition
A vast, luminous cloud of gas and dust in outer space, often serving as a region where new stars are born or marking the remains of dead stars.
Etymology
The word comes directly from the Latin word 'nebula,' meaning 'mist,' 'cloud,' or 'fog.' It was adopted into English in the 17th century to describe these cloudy, indistinct celestial objects visible through telescopes.
In the news
The word appears in the article's 'More in Space Telescope' sidebar while referencing a comparison of images captured by the Hubble and Webb telescopes. It highlights how nebulae are primary subjects for scientific observation to understand stellar evolution.
Put your name aboard NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope
Read the full article ↗Popular Science