New discovery in Kepler-51 expands exoplanetary frontiers

According to the Polish Press Agency, an international team of scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope has discovered the fourth planet in the Kepler-51 system. Known for its three planets with extremely low density, akin to the density of candyfloss, this system now includes a new member. This discovery could significantly expand our knowledge of exoplanets, particularly concerning their formation and evolution.

Research conducted by scientists from Pennsylvania State University and Osaka University has shown that the exoplanet Kepler-51d transited in front of its star two hours earlier than predicted. Analysis of current and archived data from various telescopes, including the Webb telescope, led scientists to conclude that the most plausible explanation for the observed anomaly is the presence of a fourth planet, whose gravitational interactions disrupt the orbits of the other planets.

Jessica Libby-Roberts, a postdoctoral researcher at the Center for Exoplanets and Habitable Worlds, highlights that "fluffy" planets are unique due to their low mass and density. The three known planets in the Kepler-51 system are similar in size to Saturn, but their mass is only a few times greater than Earth's.

The newly discovered planet, Kepler-51e, has a mass similar to the other planets in the system and an orbital period of 264 days. It is situated in its star's habitable zone, meaning that the surface temperature may allow for the presence of liquid water. However, it is not confirmed whether Kepler-51e is as "fluffy" as its neighbours.

The Kepler-51 system is located approximately 2,600 light-years from Earth. These research findings were published in "The Astronomical Journal." This discovery prompts new questions about the formation of planets and their atmospheres in young star systems.