Scientists observe rocky planets forming around a young star

Astronomers have observed the earliest stages of rocky planet formation around a young, sun-like star, marking a significant discovery in understanding planetary origins. Scientists used the Webb Space Telescope and the European Southern Observatory to observe solid specks condensing in the gas disk around the star HOPS-315, a process never before directly witnessed. This revealed the presence of silicon monoxide gas and crystalline silicate minerals, key ingredients for planet formation. The findings offer insights into the early solar system, potentially indicating that the formation of rocky planets is a common process. Researchers hope to find more budding planetary systems to determine if Earth-like planets are common.