The Superclouds of the Local Milky Way

Kormann et al. (2025), accepted for publication in A&A

Focusing on the largest scales in Gaia-based 3D dust maps, we find a pattern of seven highly elongated, mostly parallel structures in the local \(\sim\)5 kpc\(^2\), five of which were previously unknown. These findings establish a new framework for understanding how large-scale Galactic structures shape the conditions for star formation in the solar vicinity, and likely in galaxies like the Milky Way.

Interactive Figures

Figure 1: 3D view of the 40 HOP clouds

Starting with a face-on view of the 40 HOP clouds, the Galactic Center is located to the right. Each cloud is assigned a distinct color, the Sun is represented by the yellow dot in the center.

Full screen view here.

Figure 4: 3D view of the seven superclouds

Starting with a face-on view of the seven superclouds, the Galactic Center is located to the right. Each cloud is assigned a distinct color, the Sun is represented by the yellow dot in the center.

Full screen view here.