Stardust

Stardust is a type of cosmic material composed of tiny particles created from the remnants of stars. These particles, including dust grains and organic compounds, form in space—around dying stars or within interstellar clouds—and can travel through the galaxy. When they encounter our solar system, some stardust particles settle onto planets or are captured by space missions. Studying stardust helps scientists understand the life cycles of stars, the formation of planets, and the organic materials that may have contributed to life on Earth. It provides a direct glimpse into the building blocks of the universe.