Scientists have discovered a rare sight in a nearby star system: Six planets orbiting their central star in a rhythmic beat. The planets move in an orbital waltz that repeats itself so precisely that it can be readily set to music.
A rare case of an “in sync” gravitational lockstep, the system could offer deep insight into planet formation and evolution.
The analysis, led by UChicago scientist Rafael Luque, was published Nov. 29 in Nature.
“This discovery is going to become a benchmark system to study how sub-Neptunes, the most common type of planets outside of the solar system, form, evolve, what are they made of, and if they possess the right conditions to support the existence of liquid water in their surfaces,” said Luque
One thing that I miss about reddit are the top votes comments on science articles. They would often provide a good explanation of the article from someone familiar with the matter.
I guess it takes a little bit of time, just came to my mind.
Interesting article nonetheless, thanks for posting.
Yes, but I also always had to remind myself that, ok, but on the internet, everyone is a dog. I should use this dog’s useful suggestion to continue my research accordingly. I shouldn’t just assume this supposed experts word is gospel cause upvotes.
Yeah, it’d be great to read "Astronomer here!” followed by a wall of really interesting text.
It was great for getting an “insider’s perspective” on what were sometimes sensationalized science news headlines. There’d be some random guy, “Hey there, I work down the hall from the team that’s been working on this, absolutely stunning results, blah blah blah” or “I work in this field and this has been known about for a decade, there’s absolutely nothing to this thing and it’s not practical because of X, Y, and Z.” Random experts just popping up out of nowhere to add context.
What a pleasantly alliterative title. There’s a poem there somewhere. That strangely synchronous system of six.
reminds me of this video from Steve Mould with some more explanation on why
