Remarkably Low Density
Researchers have detected two exoplanets that rank among the lightest known worlds. Each has a diameter comparable to Jupiter, yet their average density is so low that, gram for gram, they are lighter than cotton candy.
Shared Orbit Around a Distant Star
The planets orbit the same distant star, forming a tightly bound gravitational pair. Their mutual pull causes slight deviations in their orbital timing.
Measurements from Antarctica
Their masses were derived from observations carried out during the Antarctic winter using a deep‑space infrared telescope. The data allowed a precise determination of the unusually low densities.
Open Questions About Formation
This finding raises questions about how planets can form with masses barely exceeding that of air. Scientists now aim to understand the processes that produce such lightweight giants.
Future Work
Planned follow‑up observations will seek similar low‑density giants elsewhere in the galaxy and assess their role within planetary system architectures.