The most detailed star map of the Orion A molecular cloud

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The most detailed map of the Orion A molecular cloud to date
Amber Jorgenso, Astronomy | Thursday, May 17, 2018

By mapping the cloud’s dense star clusters, astronomers reveal clues concerning the formation of stars in distant galaxies, as well as our own Sun.


The most detailed star map of the Orion A molecular cloud to date.

Being able to closely observe other celestial residents, both near and far, helps astronomers understand the formation and evolution of our mysterious universe, and it’s no secret that advanced telescopes are largely responsible for the significant surge in stellar discoveries. A recent example of these advancements involved the use of high-tech telescopic data to create a meticulous map of our energetic, star-bearing neighbor — the Orion A molecular cloud.

Orion A sits about 1,200 light-years from Earth and is the closest region to us that rapidly forms high-mass stars. The molecular cloud houses compact star clusters similar to the one our Sun likely formed in, meaning the Orion A molecular cloud contains a stellar population rich in Sun-like stars. To help investigate this stellar breeding ground, a Yale-led team of researchers observed Orion A to create the most comprehensive map of the star-forming molecular cloud to date. Their paper was recently accepted by the Astrophysical Journal Supplement.

Peering into the Orion A molecular cloud gives us a glimpse into the life of our close celestial neighbor and helps us understand how Sun-like stars form in our neck of the woods. For now, it will also give astronomers insights into how stars form and evolve in galaxies much farther from home, but with NASA’s recent launch of the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) and the 2020 launch of the James Webb Space Telescope, it might not be long until we get to observe them up close and personal.