The interstellar medium - the matter between the stars in our galaxy - is in constant flux. Diffuse, hot gas cools and condenses into denser regions of molecular gas and dust, known as molecular clouds. Gravity, turbulence, and external influences can cause parts of these clouds to collapse and become even more dense. When the density in certain regions is high enough, star formation begins. This process creates a disc of gas and dust around the young star, in which planets can later form. Over the course of a star's life, the material is released back into the surrounding medium by winds, radiation, and ultimately a supernova explosion, allowing the cycle to begin again.

Observations show that stars primarily form in elongated structures of dense gas - called filaments. There is also evidence that young protostars can accrete mass directly from this gas-rich environment. How does this accretion influence the collapse of the gas? And does the environment play a role in the formation of planets?

This event is in German!

When: 12.06.2025 at 7 pm
Where: ESO Supernova Planetarium in Garching
Ticket: € 6.50
Ticket reservation: ESO Supernova