This artist's concept illustrates the ring of material discovered by the Infrared Astronomical Satellite around the star Vega.

This artist's concept illustrates the ring of material discovered by the Infrared Astronomical Satellite around the star Vega. IRAS scientists believe the material probably consists of dust and small objects resembling meteors. As depicted here, the ring of particles is thin enough toallow light from distant stars to shine through. The plane of the Milky Way is to the right.