Astronomers Observe Planet Formation Around Distant Baby Star

Swift Summary:

• international researchers have observed the earliest moment of planet formation beyond our Solar System, using the ALMA telescope and James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).
• The discovery was made around HOPS-315, a proto-star 1300 light-years away, which resembles a nascent Sun.
• Researchers identified silicon monoxide (SiO) in its gaseous state and crystalline minerals beginning to solidify in the protoplanetary disc around HOPS-315.
• This marks the first observation of planetesimal formation at such an early stage outside our Solar System.
• Findings provide a comparative model for understanding how planets like Earth form and offer insights into our Solar System’s history.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
This discovery not only advances global astronomy but also holds particular scientific importance for India’s expanding space ambitions under projects like Gaganyaan or potential Indian collaborations with international telescopes in space exploration.Understanding planetary systems could deepen participation in astrophysics research globally while contributing to growing expertise on interstellar phenomena amongst Indian scientists and astronomers.Read More