Many Mini-Neptunes Once Thought To Be Lava Worlds May Actually Have Solid Surfaces

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Many Mini-Neptunes Once Thought To Be Lava

A Bigger Cosmic Mystery

Improved Telescopes Aid Research

Possible Exotic Landscapes

Implications For Planet Formation Theories

May Lose Heat In Different Ways

There Could Be Solid Surfaces

Thick Atmospheres Hide Clues

New Models Change The Picture

Explain Why Scientists Expected Lava

What Are Mini Neptunes

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Astronomers long thought that many of the far away mini-Neptune planets were “lava worlds” with molten surfaces and crushing atmospheres. However, new studies are countering that notion. Now, it is believed some of these enigmatic worlds may be planet-like bodies covered under thick layers of gas and heat. It could have a significant impact on our understanding of planetary formation, atmospheric evolution and the potential for unusual environments beyond our solar system.
 

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