Professor of Mathematical Sciences, Mayer Humi, has been theoretically investigating a conjecture that suggested traveling waves could be a factor in the formation of asteroids, and potentially planets. In a recent publication in the Journal of Mathematical Physics (also a featured article and editor’s pick), Professor Humi utilized mathematical analysis to understand the role of gravity and density in interstellar gas clouds. The major findings are that solid particles have the potential to coalesce at wave crests where the mass density is maximal. This study provides new insights into the formation of the solar system.