How Gas Filaments and Interfilaments Feed Star Formation in Monoceros R2

• The study observed gas flows in the Monoceros R2 star-forming region, revealing that both filaments and interfilaments contribute to star formation. Filaments carry gas faster than interfilaments, and some interfilament gas flows into filaments. The research found that at least 30% of the gas in interfilaments flows toward filaments, replenishing them.
• The study measured two isotopes of carbon monoxide, 13CO and C18O, to trace gas density and velocity. It identified three dense filaments and three less dense interfilaments. The results show that gas flows toward star formation hubs, contributing to increased gas density and star formation.
• The findings suggest that understanding star formation requires considering both dense filaments and interfilaments. The study highlights the importance of gas flow patterns in hub–filament systems and their role in forming high-mass stars. Future research will extend this analysis to other systems and compare observations with simulations.

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