Astronomers have recently discovered an extraordinary exoplanet named WASP-193b, located approximately 1,200 light years from Earth.
This remarkable planet has drawn significant attention due to its unusual characteristics, especially its incredibly low density, which is likened to that of cotton candy.
WASP-193b is around 50% larger than Jupiter but has only one-seventh of Jupiter’s mass, making it one of the “fluffiest” planets ever observed. The discovery of such a low-density planet challenges existing theories about planetary formation and composition, as scientists are now tasked with understanding how such a light and fluffy planet could exist.
The planet was identified using the Wide Angle Search for Planets (WASP) project, which is dedicated to finding exoplanets outside our solar system. Its “super fluffy” nature is due to its extended atmosphere, which is likely composed of light gases such as hydrogen and helium.
The planet’s unique structure makes it an intriguing subject for further study, as it may provide new insights into the formation and evolution of gas giants.
The discovery of WASP-193b adds to the growing list of diverse exoplanets that continue to surprise and challenge astronomers’ understanding of the universe.