What is an object in space that produces its own heat and light called?

A star is defined as an astronomical object that generates its own heat and light through the process of nuclear fusion occurring in its core. During this process, hydrogen atoms combine to form helium, releasing enormous amounts of energy in the form of light and heat. This is what distinguishes stars from other bodies in space.

In contrast, a planet orbits a star and does not produce its own light; it reflects the light of stars. Moons are natural satellites that orbit planets, and like planets, they do not generate their own light. Asteroids are small, rocky bodies that also do not produce light or heat on their own. Their characteristics help clarify the unique role of stars as self-luminous objects in the universe.