Astronomers using ALMA and JWST have observed the earliest stages of planet formation around the star HOPS-315, located 1,300 light-years away. The discovery shows the condensation of silicon monoxide minerals, similar to those found in meteorites from our solar system, marking the initial formation of planetesimals. This provides a unique opportunity to study the early stages of our own solar system's formation, offering a glimpse into its infancy, 4.6 billion years ago. The research, led by Melissa McClure of Leiden University, was published in Nature.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.