A Dramatic Celestial Discovery
Astronomers from MIT have made a stunning discovery in the cosmos. They found a Mercury-sized exoplanet that is disintegrating at an alarming rate. This rocky planet orbits extremely close to its star, leading to a unique celestial phenomenon. Every 30.5 hours, this small lava world sheds material equivalent to the mass of Mount Everest. This rapid loss of mass showcases the extreme conditions in which the planet exists.
The findings reveal how some planets can be dramatically affected by their proximity to their stars. This exoplanet serves as a fascinating example of the processes that govern celestial bodies. Observing such phenomena helps astronomers understand more about planetary formation and destruction. The study also raises questions about the longevity and fate of other planets in similar orbits.
