Abstracts » Zoology and wildlife conservation

A rotating disk of gas and dust around a young counterpart to beta Pictoris

Article Abstract:

MWC480, a 6 million year-old star with similar stellar properties to those of beta Pictoris, has been observed as part of a high-resolution millimetre-wave interferometric survey of young pre-main-sequence stars with spectral types Ae. The imaging survey aimed to identify circumstellar disks associated with the much younger Herbig Ae stars, in the hope of understanding the origins of debris disks such as that surrounding beta Pictoris. It was established that molecular-line emission from MWC480 seems to be more extended than the dust emission, with a brightness profile that is more strongly resolved.

Circumstellar matter

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Circumstellar disks and the search for neighbouring planetary systems

Article Abstract:

There is strong circumstantial evidence in favour of planet formation around other stars. Disks, from which planets are formed by condensation of the dust and gases in it, are common around many young stars. This indicates that planetary systems may be common. These disks can be observed by the infrared radiations from them and tracking of the periodic Doppler shifts. Planets can be found by searching for the effects they produce on the motion of the stars, or the enhancement and diminution of the star's light by the planet.

Reports, Astronomy, Discovery and exploration, Planets, Space astronomy

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Stellar gerontology

Article Abstract:

T. Lanz, S.R. Heap and I. Hubeny have estimated the age of the star beta-Pictoris to be either 12 million years (Myr) or more than 300 Myr. The younger age is more likely to be correct. Pictoris is believed to have a mature planetary system but its age makes the development of large planets unlikely. The infrared observations made by IRAS craft had revealed the presence of zodiacal-like particles around the stars alpha Lyra (Vega), beta Pictoris and alpha Piscis Austrinus.

Solar system, Origin, Cosmology, Stars

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