In the latest study, published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, scientists investigate the mechanisms behind the formation of twin planets. These unique worlds, consisting of two giant planetary bodies orbiting each other, may arise as a result of tidal heating (tidal dissipation).
The researchers note that understanding the processes behind the formation of such planets is fundamental to deciphering the evolution and possible existence of life in the universe.
Lead author of the study, Dr Cecilia Lazzoni from the University of Exeter, said: “Double planets, although absent from the Solar System, could represent an entirely new kind of world, capable of supporting life even far from their star, using of the energy supplied. by the giant planets.”
The study relies heavily on the Pluto-Charon system, which is analogous to a dwarf planet. Charon is a moon of Pluto and is half the diameter and one-eighth the mass of Pluto, making it the largest moon in the solar system compared to its parent body.
This property, along with other unique features of the system, makes it a valuable object for studying the formation of double planets.
The researchers ran a series of computer simulations using improved code based on previous studies of planet formation. They found that taking tidal dissipation into account helps explain the possibility of double planet formation in systems composed of several giant planets.
This result will help to better understand the emergence and evolution of exoplanets and their systems.
Dr. Lazzoni emphasizes: “The study is inspired by the discovery of the potential double planet DH Tau Bb and other similar objects such as Kepler 1625 bi and Kepler 1708 bi. The results of our work will help scientists better understand the conditions needed to support life outside the solar system.”
With the emergence of new data on moons that may be suitable for life, such as Europa, Enceladus and Titan, interest in the study of double planets is becoming increasingly relevant.
This research opens new perspectives in the search for life beyond the solar system by focusing on the unique shapes of planetary systems and their possible habitability.
