Astronomers have identified an unusual planetary system around the red dwarf star LHS 1903, where planets are arranged in a puzzling inside-out sequence. This discovery overturns conventional models of planetary formation, raising new questions about how diverse worlds emerge across the galaxy and reshaping our understanding of cosmic evolution.
A newly discovered planetary system around the star LHS 1903 has left scientists baffled. Unlike our Solar System, where rocky planets lie closest to the Sun and gas giants orbit farther out, this system flips the expected order, challenging long-held theories of planetary formation.
Astronomers using the European Space Agency’s CHEOPS satellite have uncovered a planetary system that defies traditional expectations. The star LHS 1903, located in the Milky Way’s thick disc, hosts planets arranged in a rare rocky-gaseous-gaseous-rocky sequence. This unusual order challenges the long-standing belief that rocky planets always form closest to their stars, followed by gas giants farther out.
Key Highlights
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The star LHS 1903 is a small red dwarf, cooler and dimmer than our Sun, yet capable of hosting multiple planets.
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The first three planets follow expected patterns, but the fourth planet is rocky instead of gaseous, creating an inside-out arrangement.
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This discovery suggests planetary systems may form through mechanisms not yet fully understood, possibly influenced by unique environmental or stellar conditions.
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The finding challenges the universality of our Solar System’s structure, opening new avenues for research into planetary diversity.
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Astronomers believe this system could reshape models of planetary migration and accretion, offering insights into how worlds evolve differently across the galaxy.
The inside-out planetary system around LHS 1903 underscores the vast diversity of cosmic architectures. By defying established theories, it highlights the need for fresh approaches to studying planetary formation. As telescopes and satellites continue to probe the skies, discoveries like this remind us that the universe is far more complex than once imagined.
Sources: ScienceAlert, Euronews Next, EarthSky