An Aussie research astronomer working with amateurs … and based in the Australian Astronomical Observatory in Sydney … cool.
(Note: but not involved in this discovery ..)
Ha !…
Quote:
"We've had hints of this kind of thing before, but this is the first time you can say for sure it's a planet," he said.
"The other cases have been around very unusual binary stars, but these are stars much more like the Sun."
…
Dr O'Toole believes this latest discovery highlights the diverse range of solar systems in the universe.
"Our solar system is looking a bit unusual. But so is this - this is pretty unusual," he laughed.
"The definition of a normal planetary system is becoming really hard to pin down. Just when we think we've got an idea, something comes along that surprises us."
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There is no reason why our methods for categorising and classifying planets, should imply that planets should then conform with these categories.
Its up to science theories to adapt, in the face of observational evidence.
Others are beginning to take note of the diversity message also .. which is heartening.
Cool post, Michael .. thanks.
Cheers