What is a common example of a star?

The Sun is a common example of a star because it fits the scientific definition of a star: it is a massive, luminous celestial body made primarily of hydrogen and helium that generates energy through nuclear fusion in its core. This process of fusion converts hydrogen into helium, releasing vast amounts of energy in the form of light and heat, which is why we can see stars shining in the night sky.

In contrast, a meteor is a small rock or particle that burns up upon entering Earth's atmosphere; it is not a star. A planet, such as Earth, orbits a star and does not generate its own light, distinguishing it from stars. A satellite, either natural (like the Moon) or artificial (like the International Space Station), orbits around planets or stars but is also not classified as a star. Thus, the Sun perfectly exemplifies what constitutes a star in the universe.