In a recent study, astronomers have identified a low-density exoplanet orbiting a nearby star. The planet, known as TOI-1259b, was discovered by NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). The planet is estimated to be about three times the size of Earth, but only half as dense, suggesting that its composition is dominated by light elements such as hydrogen and helium. This could mean that the planet may have a large atmosphere or even a deep ocean, making it an exciting target for further study. The planet’s host star is an M-dwarf, which is a type of star that is much cooler and less luminous than our Sun. TOI-1259b is the first low-density exoplanet to be discovered around an M-dwarf, and its discovery could lead to the identification of many more exoplanets with similar characteristics.

Read Full Article Here

source: Phys.org