In an accompanying paper, a second research team have used ALMA's data to create the first 3D model of Supernova 1987A, revealing important insights into the original star itself and the way supernovae create the
basic building blocks of planets.
The discs around these stars contain gas, dust, and planetesimals —
the building blocks of planets and the progenitors of planetary systems.
Evidently
the building blocks of planets keep colliding, merging, shattering, and pulverizing one another long after the first large bodies come together.
Elements heavier than hydrogen and helium were more abundant later in the star - forming boom as more massive stars ended their lives early and enriched the galaxy with material that served as
the building blocks of planets and even life on Earth.
A French - UK - Australian team now think they have the answer, with their simulations showing the formation of «dust traps» where pebble - sized fragments collect and stick together, to grow into
the building blocks of planets.
«You can see from the surface a record of solar system history,
building blocks of planets and precursors to life.»
«We have shown that silicate grains have agglomerated into pebbles, which are
the building blocks of planet embryos.»