Gigantic clouds containing dust and gas in space are called nebulas (or nebulae). These clouds are often the birthplaces of stars and planetary systems. There are different types of nebulae, including:
Emission Nebulae: Glow due to ionized gases emitting light.
Reflection Nebulae: Reflect light from nearby stars.
Dark Nebulae: Dense clouds of dust that block light from behind them.
Planetary Nebulae: Formed from the outer layers of dying stars.
Examples include the Orion Nebula and the Horsehead Nebula. These clouds are crucial in the lifecycle of stars and galaxies.