Final answer:
The star classification system in use today was created by Annie Jump Cannon in the 1890s. She classified stars based on temperature using categories like O, B, A, F, G, K, M. Cannon's work remains central to modern astronomy and is a hallmark of her significant contributions to the field.
Step-by-step explanation:
The scientist who created the star classification system that is in use today is Annie Jump Cannon. In the 1890s, Cannon developed a classification system, focusing on stellar spectra and simplified the previous classification to include only a few categories arranged by temperature: O, B, A, F, G, K, M. Through her meticulous work at Harvard College Observatory, Cannon classified an astounding 500,000 stars, using these categories to indicate their temperature and characteristics. Her system, often referred to as the Harvard Classification System, remains the basis for the modern system astronomers use today to classify stars.
By the standards of her time, Cannon's contributions to astronomy were extraordinary. After graduating from Wellesley College and overcoming the social barriers of the era, she emerged as a leading figure in the field. Her legacy continues to inspire women in science, providing a poignant example of dedication and excellence in the world of astronomy.
Cannon's achievements are a testament to her brilliance and perseverance in a field that was, at the time, dominated by men. Her influence is still felt today, as her classification system remains a fundamental tool for understanding the universe.