Cosmic dust grains found in the center of the butterfly nebula (NGC 6302)located about 3,400 light years away, can reveal clues about the process of planet formation, including the earth.
New images made with the cosmic dust particles – formed mainly by minerals and organic material with the same ingredients responsible for the formation of life – with the approximate size of a millionth meter in the nebula nucleus. This microscopic measure may seem small, but it is quite large with regard to, indicating that these grains have been growing for a considerable time.
The findings were published.
Most of the amorphous atomic structure, or with random guidance, such as soot. But some particles form beautiful crystalline shapes, similar to small precious stones.
It is these particles that come together to form something new that can clarify more about the formation of the planets.
“For years, scientists have debated how cosmic dust forms in space. But now, with the help of the powerful space telescope James Webb, we can finally have a clearer image,” said the main study researcher, Dr. Mikako Matsuura of the University of Cardiff, in a statement.
“We can see both cold precious stones formed in calm and lasting areas, and the igneous dirt created in violent parts and quick movement of space, all within a single object. This discovery is a big step ahead in understanding how the planet’s basic materials come together, “she added.
They show them that their toro – the dense gas range that surrounds the nebula, in the shape of a donut – is composed of crystalline silicates such as quartz, and also irregular shaped dust grains.
The ions that require the most energy to form are concentrated near the center, while those that require less energy are farther from the central star.
