Star Classification

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Star Classification

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Stars are classified by their spectra, designated by letters, sometimes with numerical subdivisions, as the sun is a G1-type star. The seven main types with their principal spectral characteristics are, in order of decreasing temperature:
O - He II absorption;
B - He I absorption;
A - H absorption;
F - Ca II absorption;
G - strong metallic lines;
K -bands developing;
M - very red.
Also, the letters, P, W, Q, R, N, and S are used to designate comparatively rare types of stars which do not fall into the main series.</p> </dd>

References

This article is based on NASA's Dictionary of Technical Terms for Aerospace Use