“Interstellar objects may be able to jump-start planet formation, in particular around higher-mass stars,” said Pfalzner in a statement. However, that doesn’t explain why relatively large planets, such as gas giants, have been spotted orbiting young stars. “Interstellar space would deliver ready-made seeds for the formation of the next generation of planets,” Pfalzner proposed. The theory could explain why gas giants like Jupiter are incredibly rare in “M dwarf” star systems, which tend to be relatively cool and small. More on 3I/ATLAS: NASA Scientist Disputes Claim That Mysterious Object Headed Into Solar System Was Sent by Aliens