Possible misenterpretations of the known universe

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The discussion explores the idea that some stars observed in the universe could be mere reflections, potentially influenced by ice objects, particularly at greater distances. However, the consensus is that gravitational influence is a key factor in confirming the existence of stars, as most stars are indeed subject to it. While reflections in space are theoretically possible, they would be too faint to resemble actual stars. The challenge of gauging gravitational influence increases with distance, but the overwhelming evidence supports that stars are real entities rather than reflections. Overall, the notion of stars as reflections lacks sufficient scientific backing.
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After observing an icicle the other day, I came to the conclusion that perhaps some of the "stars" that we see in space could just be reflections. Is it possible that we are seeing light passed through a mostly ice object and accounting it for a dimmer star? This seems most plausible at greater distances. Of course, this is just my imagination running rampant. Thanks for any help.
 
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The short answer is gravitational influence. While not all stars are subject to gravitational influence, there are enough to suggest they are real.
 
Chronos said:
The short answer is gravitational influence. While not all stars are subject to gravitational influence, there are enough to suggest they are real.

Can we really account for most stars gravitational influence? By gravitational influence, I'm assuming that you mean on other stars in their galaxies. Wouldn't this be harder to gauge the farther away you get?
 
I should clarify that all stars are subject to gravitational influence, but not all such effects are directly observable. Reflections in space would be far too faint to mimic a star.
 

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