What happens next after a pope dies, according to recent history

Pope Francis' death triggers a well-defined sequence of events as per Vatican protocols. Following his passing, the papal apartments are secured, and a nine-day mourning period begins, during which the late pope lies in state for public viewing. The camerlengo destroys symbolic items like the fisherman's ring to signify the end of the pontificate. Ultimately, cardinals gather in conclave to elect the next pope, marking the transition of leadership within the Catholic Church.