Webb Telescope uncovers fourth 'fluffy' planet in Kepler-51 system

According to the Polish Press Agency, an international team of scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope discovered the fourth planet in the Kepler-51 system. This system, renowned for its three planets with extremely low density, similar to the density of cotton candy, has gained a new member. This discovery has the potential to enhance our knowledge of exoplanets, particularly regarding their formation and evolution.

Research conducted by scientists from Pennsylvania State University and Osaka University revealed that the exoplanet Kepler-51 d transited in front of its star two hours earlier than expected by scientists. Analysis of current and archival data from various telescopes, including the Webb Telescope, led scientists to conclude that the best explanation for the observed anomaly is the existence of a fourth planet, whose gravitational interactions affect 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 because of 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 mass.

The newly discovered planet, Kepler-51 e, has a mass similar to the other planets in the system and an orbital period of 264 days. It is located in its star's habitable zone, meaning that the temperature on its surface may allow for the existence of liquid water. However, it is uncertain whether Kepler-51 e is as "fluffy" as its neighbours.

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