Solar system formation, artwork C013 / 8988

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library

Solar system formation, artwork C013 / 8988

Solar system formation. Computer artwork of rocky asteroids and protoplanets around the primordial nebula surrounding the Sun (centre). All the solar systems components originated from this disc of gas and dust (the solar nebula). Planets and other bodies (such as asteroids) formed about 4.6 billion years ago following a process of condensation within the nebula. Several comets (white) can be seen, their long tails pointing away from the Sun. It is thought that coagulation of small particles in the solar nebula eventually led to larger particles, which in turn attracted more and more mass by gravitation, forming planetesimals, or proto- planets

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 9200629

© DETLEV VAN RAVENSWAAY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Asteroid Asteroids Astrophysical Astrophysics Bodies Body Comet Comets Components Condensation Condensing Creation Disc Dust Early Evolution Formation Life Nebula Origin Origins Particle Particles Planetary Science Planetesimal Planets Prehistoric Prehistory Protoplanet Rocky Solar Nebula Solar System Star World Young

FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Science > Space Exploration > Planets > Earth

> Science > Space Exploration > Solar System

EDITORS COMMENTS
This artwork, titled "Solar system formation" takes us on a journey back in time to witness the birth of our celestial neighborhood. Created by DETLEV VAN RAVENSWAAY, this computer-generated illustration showcases the early stages of our solar system's evolution. At the center of the image, we find our young Sun surrounded by a primordial nebula—a vast disc composed of gas and dust. This nebula served as the cradle for all components that now make up our solar system. Rocky asteroids and protoplanets can be seen orbiting around it, emerging from this cosmic nursery. Approximately 4.6 billion years ago, within this swirling cloud of gas and dust, a process called condensation occurred. Tiny particles coalesced into larger ones through gravitational attraction, eventually forming planetesimals or proto-planets—the building blocks of planets like Earth. The artwork also features several comets with their characteristic long tails pointing away from the Sun. These icy bodies traveled great distances before being captured by gravity's embrace within our evolving solar system. As we gaze upon this mesmerizing depiction, we are reminded of how far we have come in understanding the origins and formation of not only our own home planet but also countless other celestial bodies scattered throughout space. It serves as a testament to humanity's insatiable curiosity about the mysteries that lie beyond Earth's boundaries—our quest to unravel the secrets hidden within these ancient realms continues unabated.

MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.