Home > Science > Space Exploration > Planets > Neptune
Early solar system
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Early solar system
Early solar system. Artwork showing the collision of rocky bodies (planetesimals) in the early solar system. Our solar system is thought to have formed around 4.5 billion years ago. It started as a disc of gas and dust surrounding the new Sun. Gravitational attraction caused the dust to accrete, forming larger and larger bodies. These continued to collide until one large body dominated its orbit, becoming a planet. As well as the eight planets there is much debris left over from this process, mainly found in the Asteroid Belt between Mars and Jupiter, the Kuiper Belt beyond Neptune and the even more distant Oort Cloud
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6447185
© HENNING DALHOFF / SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Asteroid Astrophysical Astrophysics Colliding Collision Debris Impact Planetary Planetary Science Planetesimal Planets Rock Rocks Rocky Solar System
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Planets
> Jupiter
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Planets
> Mars
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Planets
> Neptune
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Solar System
EDITORS COMMENTS
This artwork showcases the early solar system, providing a glimpse into the collision of rocky bodies known as planetesimals. Approximately 4.5 billion years ago, our solar system began its formation as a swirling disc of gas and dust surrounding the nascent Sun. Over time, gravitational forces caused these tiny particles to come together, forming larger and larger bodies. The relentless collisions between these celestial objects continued until one dominant body emerged in each orbit, eventually becoming a fully-fledged planet. Today, we recognize eight such planets within our solar system. However, remnants of this tumultuous process can still be found scattered throughout space. Debris from this cosmic ballet lingers in various regions: the Asteroid Belt located between Mars and Jupiter; the Kuiper Belt extending beyond Neptune's orbit; and even further out lies the distant Oort Cloud. These remnants serve as reminders of our solar system's fascinating history. Through meticulous illustration and artistic vision, Science Photo Library has brought this ancient era to life with stunning detail. This print not only appeals to astronomy enthusiasts but also sparks curiosity about astrophysics and planetary science.
MADE IN THE UK
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 Basket.
