A small trans-Neptunian object beyond Pluto shows signs of an atmosphere, defying current planetary science and reshaping solar system theories.
Key takeaways
- Why the Discovery of an Atmosphere on a Trans-Neptunian Object Challenges Current Planetary Science
- The solar system’s deep freeze is supposed to strip small, distant bodies of any real atmosphere — yet astronomers may have just spotted one where it shouldn’t exist. ...
- TNOs, especially those smaller than Pluto, face a triple threat. Their weak gravity can’t hold onto volatile molecules. Their frigid temperatures — often below -230°C ...
- So, the detection of an atmosphere on a TNO smaller than Pluto upends prevailing models of solar system formation and evolution. It suggests either unknown sources of ...
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Canonical source: https://mlxio.com/science/tiny-object-beyond-pluto-atmosphere-mystery
