In the vast domain of astronomyTHE planets similar in size to that of Neptune are rare in certain regions, notably in what is called the “Neptune desert zone”. However, a recent discovery has broken this pattern by revealing five planets that challenge what was previously believed.
What is their particularity and what secrets could they reveal about the planetary formation? In this article we explain all the details.
The 5 planets similar to Neptune in an unusual environment
The five planets identified red dwarfs in orbitstars of low temperature and small size. This type of stars It is ideal for locating small planets, because the low contrast between the planet and the star makes detailed observations easier.
These planets were validated using an innovative methodology, which uses multicolor transit photometryallowing scientists to precisely analyze its characteristics.
TOI-5319b
TOI-5319b is a fascinating example of a planet that We find it where it shouldn’t be. Studies suggest that this planet, like its companions, could have internal or external mechanisms allowing it to preserve its atmosphere despite the radiation it receives from its host star.
TOI-1883b
This planet is notable not only for its Neptune-like size, but also for its proximity to an M-type star. Its location in the “Neptune Desert” is particularly intriguing, because it is located in an area where the presence of planets of this size is extremely rare.
TOI-4438b
Scientists believe that the presence of TOI-4438b in this region could be linked to a still unknown phenomenon which allows it to resist the erosion of its atmosphere.
TOI-2768b
Among the discovered planets, TOI-2768b is particularly important, since It is located in the center of the “Neptune Desert”. The existence of TOI-2768b in this area suggests that some planets could resist atmospheric mass loss caused by stellar radiation, calling into question current theories on the structure and stability of these celestial bodies.
TOI-2274b
TOI-2274b is in a similar position, with physical characteristics that They look like Neptune and an orbit that defies expectations about the distribution of these planets in the cosmos.
The importance of these Neptune-like planets for astronomy
This discovery challenges our assumptions about the “desert zones” of the universe and opens new possibilities for understanding how some planets manage to form and stay in hostile regions.
Studying their atmospheres will allow scientists to explore the processes that facilitate the survival of these bodies, and could change our understanding of the formation and distribution of planets in the galaxy. These discoveries remind us that, despite advances in observation and analysis, The universe is still full of mysteries to be revealed.
