‘Exposed’ planetary core offers astronomers ‘unique’ glimpse of innermost layers
The surviving core of a planet has been found orbiting a distant star, offering astronomers a glimpse into its innermost layers.
Planet
Second planet could be orbiting neighbouring star just four light years away
Astronomers have discovered what could be a second planet in another solar system just four light years from Earth.
Planet with helium-filled atmosphere shaped like balloon found by astronomers
A distant planet with a helium-filled atmosphere that has swollen into the shape of a balloon has been discovered by astronomers.
Could Pluto regain its planet status? These scientists are keen to see it happen
Ever since Pluto was downgraded and given the “dwarf planet” status in 2006, debates have been raging among the scientific community about whether the decision was justified.
Our sun is losing mass and weakening its grip on the solar system, study finds
The sun is losing mass and weakening its grip on the solar system, scientists have found, after analysing Mercury’s orbit.
New scientific theory about life on Earth involves alien bugs hitching a ride on space dust
Space dust may have transported alien bugs to Earth – or terrestrial microbes to other planets, research suggests.
Planet with ‘quiet’ star could provide easy living 11 light years from Earth
A newly discovered planet orbiting a nearby star could be the closest world to Earth offering life a comfortable home.