Blobs in the Earth’s interior mantle have been puzzling geologists for decades. Find out how a new study solves the mystery by linking them to an ancient planet that collided with Earth to form the Moon.
Category: Planets
Discoveries related to the origin, evolution, and distribution of life in the universe.
Giant Exoplanet Helps Explain Solar System Formation
A giant exoplanet has been discovered orbiting a low-mass star. Find out why this finding challenges our understanding of planet formation and helps scientists decipher the origins of solar systems, including our own.
Mars Exploration News: A Month of Discovery
Mars exploration was in the headlines for several reasons during the month of April. Find out the latest exploits of NASA’s Ingenuity, Curiosity and Insight rover missions on the Red Planet.
Doomed Planet May Foretell Earth’s Ultimate Fate
A doomed planet orbiting an aging star has been observed for the first time. Find out what this discovery can contribute to our search for life on other worlds.
Lunar Meteorites Help Explain Moon’s Formation
Lunar meteorites are very rare rocks that scientists sometimes discover in Antarctica or deserts. Find out how a new study of the trace gases they contain has shed light on the origins of the moon and the Earth.
Planets with Water Aren’t Always Earth-Like
Planets with water are the main targets for scientists' search for life on other worlds. Find out how a new study shows that these planets can be very different from Earth.
Planetary Formation in the News
Planetary formation made the news in three different ways this week. Find out how surprising results from studies of a meteorite, a debris field and the planet Venus all shed new light on our own planet's deep history.
Planet with Two Suns Detected by Ground-Based Telescope
A planet with two suns named Kepler 16-b was located using conventional astronomy last week. Discover why this is an important breakthrough that will lead to a better understanding of how planets form.
Moons May Guide Us to Life on Other Planets
Moons similar to Earth's seem to be vital for life on other planets. Find out why a new study explains how to narrow the search to worlds with suitable natural satellites. (4:00 min read)
Planet Formation Clarified by Young Star System
Planet formation remains one of the mysteries of astrophysics. Find out how a new study sheds light on the process and offers a new method for future research in the field. (4:30 min read)