Worlds collide! James Webb Space Telescope investigates what happens when planets crash together
Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope are studying 'extreme debris disks' to understand the violent collisions between planets in young solar systems. This research provides clues about the early history of our own solar system, including the formation of the moon.
Why it matters
Understanding these rare planetary collisions helps scientists reconstruct the chaotic origins of planetary systems and the evolution of Earth.
Exoplanets Worlds collide! James Webb Space Telescope investigates what happens when planets crash together News By Robert Lea Published 6 October 2026 "This is the first time we have gathered enough systems to truly understand this subclass that we call extreme debris disks."
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