Scientists find entirely new kind of planet

undefined 17, 2026

Source: independent

Scientists have discovered a wholly new type of planet: L 98-59 d. Roughly 1.6 times Earth’s size, it has a permanent magma ocean storing sulphur and a hydrogen-rich atmosphere with hydrogen sulphide. Unlike gas dwarfs or water worlds, L 98-59 d’s molten mantle preserves volatile gases, showing planets can be far more diverse than thought. While unlikely to host life, the find hints at many undiscovered planetary types across the galaxy.

Share on