[Music]
New link found between water and planet formation
Using the unique capabilities of ALMA
astronomers have found water vapour in a stellar disc
exactly where planets may be forming.
Water is vital for life on Earth,
and is also thought to play
a key role in planet formation.
Until now, researchers had never mapped
water across a stable, cool disc –
favourable places for planets
to form around young stars.
“I had never imagined that we could capture an image of oceans of water vapour in the same region where a planet is likely forming.” Stefano Facchini, University of Milan, Italy
Produced by ESO, the European Southern Observatory. Reaching new heights in Astronomy
Music: Stellardrone – The Earth Is Blue. Written by: P. Freeman, T. Howarth. Footage and photos: ESO / L. Calçada, A. Tsaousis, C. Malin, B. Tafreshi, ALMA (NAOJ/NRAO), General Dynamics C4 Systems. Scientific consultant: P. Amico, M. Lyubenova.