A dark nebula is a dense cloud of gas and dust that obscures the light from stars and other objects behind it. These nebulae appear dark against the background of brighter stars or emission nebulae because they block the light from more distant sources. Dark nebulae are typically rich in dust, which absorbs and scatters light, preventing it from passing through. These nebulae are often located in regions of star formation, where the dense material may eventually collapse to form new stars.
- Dense clouds of gas and dust that block the light from objects behind them.
- Appear as dark patches against the background of brighter nebulae or stars.
- Horsehead Nebula: Located in the Orion constellation, it's famous for its horsehead-shaped silhouette.
- Coal Sack Nebula: Prominent dark nebula in the constellation Crux.