A recent discovery of an extraordinary multi-planet system has challenged scientists’ long-held theories about hot Jupiter exoplanets being “lonely giants.” The system, centered around the K-type star WASP-132, consists of a hot Jupiter (WASP-132b), a newly discovered inner super-Earth (WASP-132c), and an outer distant ice giant planet (WASP-132d). This unexpected structure proves that not all hot Jupiters are isolated gas giants.
Hot Jupiters typically form at large distances from their stars, then migrate inward due to gravitational interactions with the surrounding disk. However, in this system, the super-Earth orbits closer to its star than the hot Jupiter, defying the predicted migration pattern. This discovery may indicate a more stable and dynamic migration path for hot Jupiters.
The study of WASP-132 has provided valuable insights into the formation timescale of planets and conditions in protoplanetary disks. Further research is needed to understand what sets this system apart from others with lonely hot Jupiters. The team plans to continue investigating the system using data from the Gaia star-mapping spacecraft, which may reveal more about its inhabitants.
The existence of WASP-132 challenges our current understanding of hot Jupiter formation and migration. Scientists hope that this discovery will stimulate further investigations into planetary system diversity and the role of migration in planet formation.
Source: https://www.space.com/hot-Jupiter-exoplanets-not-lonely-giants-WASP-132