This false color image of the Rho Ophiuchi molecular cloud complex was taken in x-ray wavelengths by the Einstein Observatory. The field of view is much smaller (1 degree by 1 degree) than that of the optical and infrared images and is centered on the complex’s core (in the optical view, the core is the dark region just beneath and to the left of the star called Rho Ophiuchi). The gas and dust seen at longer wavelengths are invisible here; the reflection nebulae are absent as well. Only stars and protostars can be seen, with a slight nebulosity around the strongest, most deeply embedded sources. 
    To condense out of the large rotating clouds, protostars must rid themselves of angular momentum. If they do not, they will be torn to