Stellar Nurseries: The Birthplaces of Stars and Planets

The universe is constantly evolving, with stars and planets being born, living, and dying in an endless cycle. While much of the focus of astronomy is on the visible results of these cosmic events—like mature stars or entire galaxies—the true magic happens in the **stellar nurseries**: vast clouds of gas and dust where new stars and planetary systems are born. These cosmic factories are not only fundamental to the creation of stars but also to the development of life-supporting planets. This article takes a closer look at these stellar nurseries, how they form, and their importance in the cycle of life in the universe.