Astronomers have detected what may be a planet locked in orbit around two brown dwarfs—objects more massive than planets but not large enough to ignite like stars. The system is roughly 120 light-years from Earth and exhibits a highly unusual orbital pattern.
Rather than circling its two central bodies in the same plane, the potential planet seems to be moving at a steep angle, suggesting a tilted path that challenges conventional models of planetary orbits. Researchers noticed that the brown dwarfs were gradually changing their orbital motion, a phenomenon that points to gravitational influence by a third object—possibly this distant planet.
The brown dwarf pair has been under observation since 2023, when scientists realized they frequently eclipse one another. That recurring eclipse pattern provided clues that led to this recent discovery.
While over a dozen planets are known to orbit two stars, this system stands out due to the odd angle and dynamics of its orbit. The findings were recently published in the journal Science Advances.
Because the suspected planet hasn't been directly observed, researchers emphasize the need for additional study to confirm its presence and determine its mass and trajectory. The scientists involved believe this kind of planetary system could expand our understanding of how planets form in environments very different from our solar system.
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