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Packed Planetary Systems Hypothesis

Posted by BC on January 30th, 2008

Extrasolar planetary system artist rendition - JPL/NASA More members of extra-solar planetry systems have been found through using predictions of their existence. The Packed Planetary Systems Hypothesis is what astronomers and astrophysicists use as the base of their predictions. The Packed Planetary Systems Hypothesis states, in common terms, that, where there is room for a planet to grow in a planetary system, it will.

The most recently discovered planet orbits the star HD 74156 (Upsilon Andromedae). Predictions were made by Rory Barnes and associates from the University of Arizona while studying two other planets orbiting HD 74156.

Extra-solar planets have been detected for many years, and the research is ongoing. Two previously discovered planets orbiting HD 74156 are named “B” and “C”, so the name of the predicted planet orbiting that star is named HD 74156 D. The existence of “D” has been confirmed by a team from the University of Texas. Use of the Packed Planetary Stems Hypothesis has been proven a valuable tool in planetary discovery.

AAS announcement

3 people have commented

Barbie said,

thanks but we need some info on the sun and the solar system!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


drewfuss said,

yeah, but they’re talking about “extra”-solar planets, that means they are talking about planets on other “suns”… duh


Marc said,

Hi Barbie,

If you’re looking for info on the Sun and our planetary system then check out: http://www.astronomytoday.com/astronomy/solarsystem.html

As drewfuss said this post is about planets that orbit other stars.

Marc


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