First 3D map reveals hidden thermal structure of nearby interstellar medium
Astronomers have created the first 3D map of the interstellar medium's thermal structure, revealing that gas in space is more turbulent and dynamic than previously thought. The findings suggest that the 'unstable' gas phase is more common than classic models predicted.
Why it matters
This research challenges fundamental theories about how stars and planets form, providing a more accurate understanding of the space surrounding our solar system.
edited by Gaby Clark , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source Three-dimensional thermal phase architecture of the local ISM. (a) Three-dimensional rendering of the cold (blue) and unstable (yellow) isosurfaces, with warm gas shown transparent. (b) Slices through the Galactic plane (z = 0) of gas density n (left), FUV radiation intensity IUV (middle), and phase classification (right). Concentric circles mark heliocentric radii of 150, 300, and 450pc. Credit: arXiv (2026). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2607.15352 Astronomers have built the first three-dimensional map of gas temperature in the space surrounding our solar system, revealing a far messier and more dynamic picture than current models predict. The study was submitted to the arXiv preprint server on July 16.
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