Methanol around the young star TW Hydrae

This artist’s impression video shows the molecule methanol, or methyl alcohol (CH₃OH). This organic compound has been found by the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA) in the closest known protoplanetary disc, around the star TW Hydrae in the huge constellation of Hydra (The Female Watersnake). This is the first such detection of the compound in a young planet-forming disc. Its detection helps astronomers understand the chemical processes that occur during the formation of planetary systems and that ultimately lead to the creation of the ingredients for life.