Why do reflection nebulae typically appear blue?

Answer

Shorter, bluer wavelengths of light are scattered more effectively

Reflection nebulae scatter light from nearby stars. This process is similar to the Earth's atmosphere scattering shorter, bluer wavelengths more efficiently than longer, redder ones.

Why do reflection nebulae typically appear blue?

#Videos

Nebulae: Crash Course Astronomy #36 - YouTube

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