This Bizarre Star System Is Inside Out, and Astronomers Aren’t Sure How
Summary
New research on the planets orbiting the star LHS 1903 could revolutionize current theories of planetary system formation. This intriguing study invites readers to explore the complexities of celestial dynamics and the potential for new astronomical insights.
Key Insights
What does 'inside-out' mean for the planetary system around LHS 1903?
The term 'inside-out' describes the unusual configuration where the planets orbit in the order rocky, gaseous, gaseous, rocky from the star outward, defying the typical pattern of rocky planets inside and gas giants outside.
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What is inside-out planet formation, and how does it explain this system?
Inside-out planet formation is a process where planets form sequentially from inner to outer orbits, one after another, with each planet consuming nearby gas and dust, leaving later-forming outer planets in a gas-depleted environment that results in rocky compositions rather than gaseous ones.
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