NASA’s JWST has captured stunning images of a protoplanetary disk 114-426, revealing the presence of water ice for the first time. The disk is oriented edge-on, allowing scientists to study planet-forming material in absorption.
Researchers examined the disk using JWST/NIRCam, which provided unique insights into the composition and structure of the disk. They discovered a dip in scattered light at 3 microns, indicating the presence of water ice. The team also found evidence for grain ice-to-refractory mass ratios up to 0.2, maximum grain sizes of 0.25-5 microns, and a total dust plus ice mass of 0.46 M⊕.
Furthermore, the researchers observed excess absorption in certain NIRCam bands, suggesting excited atomic hydrogen in the disk. The morphology of the scattered light lobes revealed a tilted inner disk with laterally offset lobes exhibiting brightness asymmetry that flips with wavelength.
This discovery provides valuable insights into the formation and evolution of planetary systems, particularly those with edge-on disks like 114-426. Further study will help scientists better understand the role of water ice in shaping the destiny of planets.
Authors: Nicholas P. Ballering, L. Ilsedore Cleeves, Ryan D. Boyden, Mark J. McCaughrean, Rachel E. Gross, Samuel G. Pearson
Source: https://astrobiology.com/2024/12/water-ice-in-the-edge-on-orion-silhouette-disk-114-426-from-jwst-nircam-images.html