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34-Million-Year-Old Disk Discovered Around Distant Red Star

3/7/2025

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Summary

Astronomers Discover Disk

Astronomers have unearthed a remarkable 34-million-year-old planet-forming disk encircling the small red star J0446B, defying earlier assumptions about disk lifespans. Situated 82 light-years away, this carbon-rich disk brims with primordial gases and hydrocarbons, hinting at extended planet formation. These groundbreaking findings could revolutionize our grasp of planetary systems, especially around diminutive stars like TRAPPIST-1.

Summary

Astronomers Capture Protoplanets

Astronomers at the University of Arizona have achieved a groundbreaking feat, capturing the clearest images yet of two young protoplanets orbiting the 5-million-year-old star PDS 70, a staggering 370 light-years away. Their observations unveiled swirling dust rings that could birth moons, alongside dramatic brightness shifts, hinting at the planets' chaotic growth.

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Astronomers Discover Disk

Astronomers have unearthed a remarkable 34-million-year-old planet-forming disk encircling the small red star J0446B, defying earlier assumptions about disk lifespans. Situated 82 light-years away, this carbon-rich disk brims with primordial gases and hydrocarbons, hinting at extended planet formation. These groundbreaking findings could revolutionize our grasp of planetary systems, especially around diminutive stars like TRAPPIST-1.

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