This mostly hydrogen gas, however, absorbs some very specific colors that can be detected in the light of the nearest stars . A working map of the local ISM within 10 light-years based on recent observations is shown above . These observations show that our Sun is moving through a Local Interstellar Cloud as this cloud flows outwards from the Scorpius-Centaurus Association star forming region. Our Sun may exit the Local Interstellar Cloud during the next 10,000 years. Much remains unknown about the local ISM , including details of its distribution, its origin, and how it affects the Sun and the Earth.
Specific rights apply .