Astronomers discovered two planets orbiting very close to their stars. The stars’ heat is causing the planets to break apart and leave behind comet-like debris. These planets are called ultra-short-period planets (USPs) because they orbit quickly. Only three other disintegrating planets are known to astronomers.
USPs orbit very close to their stars and are extremely hot. They are usually small, about the size of two Earths. USPs are still new to science, and researchers are learning more about them. Scientists have many questions about how USPs form, but studying them is tricky because they are so close to their stars.
Recent observations by two research teams have provided more information about these disintegrating USPs. The discoveries are detailed in two papers available online. These studies help astronomers understand more about these unique planets and push the boundaries of our knowledge about other planetary systems.
Astronomers Find Disintegrating Exoplanets Falling Apart in Space"/>
Two very bright stars host these disintegrating planets. Researchers hope to learn more about them with the powerful James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). Studying these planets helps scientists understand what rocky exoplanets are made of.
Observing these planets offers a unique opportunity to study planetary interiors and learn more about rocky planets in other solar systems.
This article was originally published by Universe Today. Read the original article here.
Vocabulary List:
- Astronomers /əˈstrɒn.ə.mərz/ (noun): Scientists who study celestial bodies and the universe.
- Disintegrating /dɪsˈɪn.tɪ.ɡreɪt.ɪŋ/ (verb): Breaking down into smaller parts or pieces.
- Observations /ˌɒb.zəˈveɪ.ʃənz/ (noun): The action or process of closely observing something or someone.
- Exoplanets /ˈɛk.soʊˌplæn.ɪts/ (noun): Planets that exist outside our solar system.
- Researchers /rɪˈsɜːr.tʃərz/ (noun): Individuals who conduct a careful or systematic investigation.
- Solar Systems /ˈsoʊ.lər ˈsɪs.təmz/ (noun): A collection of celestial bodies including a star and the planets that orbit it.
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