Published online by Cambridge University Press: 18 September 2017
Planetary nebulae constitute a popular field of investigation because they offer a unique opportunity to study the final stages of stellar evolution before a star dies. They supply challenges not only to the stellar evolution expert but also to the spectroscopist, to the student of galactic structure, and to all observers, whether one works in the optical, ultraviolet (UV), infrared (IR) or radio-frequency (r.f.) ranges. They offer insights into properties of dusty, low-density plasmas which may help unravel problems of the interstellar medium (ISM) and quasars. Finally, many are aesthetically beautiful art creations.