Scientists puzzled by giant planet detected orbiting tiny star

Descrizione:

Astronomers have discovered a gas giant planet orbiting the tiny red dwarf star TOI-6894, the smallest star known to host such a large planet. The planet, slightly larger than Saturn but only half its mass, orbits the star every three days. This challenges existing theories of planet formation, as small stars like TOI-6894 were not thought capable of hosting massive planets due to limited material in their protoplanetary discs. Unlike typical hot gas giants, this planet is unusually cold—below 150°C—making it a unique target for atmospheric study, including potential ammonia detection, the AFP has reported. The James Webb Space Telescope will observe the planet soon to help unravel its mysteries.