Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

Planet May Have Formed From Dead Star's Debris

Astronomers hypothesize a "second-generation" planet may orbit a white dwarf, potentially forming from the star's remnants. This discovery, if confirmed, would be the first of its kind.

The planet candidate orbits the white dwarf HS 0209+0832, possibly coalescing from the star's shed gas and dust.

Key evidence is the presence of niobium, a heavy element formed during stellar death, in the white dwarf's atmosphere.

Second-generation planets are rare; another star's gravity may have aided disk formation from ejected material.

TESS satellite data shows brightness dips, suggesting a planet passing in front. The estimated gas giant orbits about 3.7 million miles away.

This close orbit exposes the planet to intense energy, potentially creating a debris disk that explains the niobium.

If it exists, the planet's material loss may not be fatal; it could remain in a stable zone for millions of years.

Future Hubble observations will investigate these planets, offering insights into our solar system's potential future.

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