129 Sample Spectral Types

Trying to remember the Spectral Types in order? A couple of excellent – and time-proven mnemonics to assist you:

ine irl/ uy, iss oy, rade ills e

There are several other Spectral Types, like the carbon RNS stars (additional mnemonic is ight ow weetheart) or the very low temperature L, T, and Y stars (additional mnemonic is ove Tou).

O

Temperature Range

  • >30,000 K

Color

  • Blue-blue-white

Stellar Examples

  • Orion Belt Stars (3 stars)

B

Temperature Range

  • 10,000-30,000 K

Color

  • Blue-white

Stellar Examples

  • Rigel, Orion’s shoulder star

A

Temperature Range

  • 7,500-10,000 K

Color

  • White

Stellar Examples

  • Sirius, the Dog Star in CMa

F

Temperature Range

  • 6,000-7,500 K

Color

  • Yellow

Stellar Examples

  • Polaris, North Pole Star

G

Temperature Range

  • 5,000-6,000 K

Color

>

  • Deep Yellow

Stellar Examples

  • Sun

K

Temperature Range

  • 3,500-5,000 K

Color

>

  • Orange

Stellar Examples

>

  • Arcturus, bright star in Boötes

M

Temperature Range

  • …3,500 K

Color

  • Red

Stellar Examples

  • Betelgeuse, Orion’s armpit

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