477K views · 7.3K reactions | 16,000 year evolution  A supercomputer simulation shows a turbulent molecular cloud and rotating disk of dense gas around a young star. Under the force of gravity, the disk collapses, forming spiral arms and clumps, which could result in the formation of planets or brown dwarfs. | NASA Ames Research Center | Facebook

Our Sun's swirling flow This NASA supercomputer simulation shows the strength of the turbulent motions of the Sun’s inner layers as materials twist into its atmosphere. The more saturated and bright reds represent the most vigorous upward or downward twisting motions. Clear areas represent areas where there are only relatively slow up-flows, with very little twisting. The data-driven animation helps scientists better understand the Sun and what phenomena drive the patterns of its activity. Learn