PV Gap

Rosa Said:

How much solar systems have we discovered in total can we see any by the naked eye?

We Answered:

Around 300.
No.
No.

Delores Said:

Have astronomers discovered exo-solar systems that are in the early forming process?

We Answered:

Yes, we can see gaps in the accretion disks around young stars indicating that planets are forming there.

Emily Said:

in a typical spiral galaxy, will the orbits of every solar systems be parallel to the galactic plane?

We Answered:

Not every one. And not precisely parallel. But most of them, and mostly parallel. So far as we currently suspect.

It has to do with conservation of angular momentum. As the galaxy formed, the stuff in it started to swirl in generally the same direction. That stuff then formed the stars and planets. Swirling in roughly the same direction as the galaxy as a whole.

Barring any odd collisions, that swirling motion would have carried on to this day, with about as much variation between systems as there is within our system. That is, no two solar system objects have exactly the same angle to the ecliptic (either orbital or rotational), but most are close. And there's far more variation in rotational than in orbital angle.

Troy Said:

Can a scientist please allow me to interview them about the formation of stars and solar systems?

We Answered:

GOOGLE NASA, your local university

there is an African-American scientist who works with NASA, I think named Neil Tyson who does wonderful astronomy lectures.

I have a BS in physics but never worked as a scientist

I'm sure many people will help

Brian Said:

Based on how solar systems are formed is Pluto a planet or a captured asteroid?

We Answered:

I doubt its a captured asteroid. Call it a "dwarf planet" and you'll be on the right track.