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The interstellar medium (ISM) is the matter and radiation that exists in the space between the star systems in a galaxy. This matter includes gas in ionic, atomic, and molecular form, as well as dust and cosmic rays. It fills interstellar space and blends smoothly into the surrounding intergalactic space.
Jan 17, 2023 · Almost all the medium in interstellar space — about 99% — is composed of gas, with just 1% being in the form of dust and ice particles.
Oct 1, 2024 · interstellar medium, region between the stars that contains vast, diffuse clouds of gases and minute solid particles. Such tenuous matter in the interstellar medium of the Milky Way system, in which the Earth is located, accounts for about 5 percent of the Galaxy’s total mass.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Interstellar space — the region between stars inside a galaxy — is home to clouds of gas and dust. This interstellar medium contains primordial leftovers from the formation of the galaxy, detritus from stars, and the raw ingredients for future stars and planets.
Apr 11, 2022 · Astronomers refer to all the material between stars as interstellar matter; the entire collection of interstellar matter is called the interstellar medium (ISM). Some interstellar material is concentrated into giant clouds, each of which is known as a nebula (plural “nebulae,” Latin for “clouds”).
Jul 18, 2022 · Interstellar space is saturated with gas and dust called the interstellar medium. This medium consists almost entirely of hydrogen and helium, along with trace amounts of heavier elements. Hydrogen makes up about 90% of the interstellar medium, while helium makes up nearly all the remaining 10%.
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What is the Interstellar Medium? Simply put, the interstellar medium is the material which fills the space between the stars. Many people imagine outer space to be a complete vacuum, devoid of any material.
