Animation of the formation of a proplyd

In this animation, the process of proplyds forming within a nebula is illustrated. The bright proplyds, visible as shiny cusps, are illuminated by the star Theta 1 Orionis C, which sets the disc material ablaze. This is, however, both a blessing and a curse. The powerful radiation that lights them up also threatens their very existence, as the disc material, once heated up, is very likely to dissipate and dissolve before planets can form.