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.

Credit:

ESO/M. Kornmesser

About the Video

Id:eso1619b
Release date:15 June 2016, 12:00
Related releases:eso1619
Duration:20 s
Frame rate:30 fps

About the Object

Name:TW Hydrae
Type:Milky Way : Star : Circumstellar Material : Disk : Protoplanetary
Category:Exoplanets

Ultra HD (info)


HD


Medium

Video Podcast
4.9 MB

For Broadcasters