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Explore the earliest stages of planet formation in this 35-minute scientific talk featuring host Simon Steel from the SETI Institute and lead researcher Melissa McClure from Leiden University. Discover groundbreaking observations made using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and ALMA that detected silicon monoxide (SiO) in both gaseous and crystalline forms within the protoplanetary disk of HOPS-315, located approximately 1,300 light-years away in the Orion constellation. Learn how researchers pinpointed the exact location where hot, rock-forming minerals are condensing in a belt-like region similar to our Solar System's asteroid belt. Delve into the chemistry and physics behind SiO detection and understand what these findings reveal about shocks, heat generation, and the formation of the first solid materials that eventually seed planet development. Gain insights into how this research contributes to our understanding of solar system formation processes and examine the cosmic "baby book" of planetary systems in their earliest developmental stages.
