11.21: Sample Spectral Types
Trying to remember the Spectral Types in order? A couple of excellent – and time-proven mnemonics to assist you:
O h B e A F ine G irl/ G uy, K iss M e O h B oy, A n F G rade K ills M e
There are several other Spectral Types, like the carbon RNS stars (additional mnemonic is R ight N ow S weetheart) or the very low temperature L, T, and Y stars (additional mnemonic is L ove T o Y ou).
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