Multidisciplinary Network Launched to Advance Understanding of Solar System Formation
Last week, the COST Action “Planets: The Birth of Solar Systems” held its highly anticipated kick-off meeting from 9-11 July 2024 in the historic city of Torun, Poland.
This groundbreaking initiative aims to create a multidisciplinary network that integrates experiments, models, and observations to study disc evolution and planet formation. By combining these critical elements, the Action seeks to build a comprehensive and holistic understanding of how Solar Systems are formed.
One of the meeting’s highlights was a keynote talk by Professor Nigel Mason, co-director of KAIROS, who emphasised the importance of laboratory data and discussed the challenges of replicating astronomical conditions in the lab. Following the insightful presentations, discussion sessions outlined plans for a significant laboratory campaign and proposed the formation of pan-European consortia.
This Action will provide the necessary structure and funding to develop a robust research framework, offer training to the next generation of scientists, and disseminate findings to key stakeholders, furthering our understanding of Solar System formation.
Learn more about the COST Action here.
Exciting times are ahead for the solar system formation research community as this initiative sets the stage for significant scientific advancements and collaborative efforts across Europe. 🌌🚀