Subscribe now

Space

Strange binary star system has three Earth-sized exoplanets

Exoplanets in binary star systems usually orbit both stars, but astronomers have now spotted three planets orbiting one or the other star in a pair

By Alex Wilkins

19 September 2024

Illustration of an exoplanet in a binary star system

dottedhippo/iStockphoto/​Getty Images

A pair of stars with three planets in orbit around one star or the other is the first system of its kind that has been confirmed.

Pairs of stars, known as binaries, appear to be more common in the galaxy than single stars like our sun. Astronomers have found planets around many of these binaries, but they are mostly orbiting far away from the stars themselves and looping around both stars at the same time.

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Unlock this article

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 15 January 2025.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account