Spherical cows have a long and storied history in physics, but does this type of crude approximation lead to realistic conclusions in the case of star formation? The combination of large- and small- scale simulations tests this idea.
The longest-lasting, most energetic explosions in the universe might occur in rare stars very similar to the very first stars to form in the universe.
Massive stars emit energetic radiation and expel strong winds that can disrupt their natal environments. New simulations show that these effects are important in the evolution of stellar nurseries and can account for some of the observed low efficiency of star formation.
Why resort to complicated theories that involve mysterious, unknown forces and states of matter? The geocentric model of the Universe nicely explains 1st century C.E. data.
Tune in now for the first extrasolar weather map of a nearby brown dwarf, made using Doppler imaging.