Astronomers have long been fascinated by the concept of Planet X, a hypothetical planet thought to be seven times the mass of Earth and orbiting beyond Neptune at an astonishing 155 billion miles from the Sun. The presence of this elusive body could explain some of the most puzzling phenomena in our outer solar system.
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory, set to launch in Chile in May, is poised to play a critical role in this search. Equipped with the largest digital camera ever constructed, it will enable astronomers to survey the Southern Hemisphere sky in unprecedented detail and capture vast amounts of data over the next decade.
Unlike previous efforts, which relied on theoretical modeling and indirect evidence, the Rubin Observatory will focus on direct observation. By monitoring specific areas of the sky for faint, moving objects, it may identify Planet X.
Despite the challenges, including its immense distance making it extremely dim, astronomers remain optimistic about the prospect of discovery. The observatory’s capabilities aim to bridge the gap between theoretical predictions and observational scrutiny.
The search for Planet X has significant implications beyond scientific discoveries, capturing public interest in planetary science and inspiring new avenues of research. If confirmed, it would be one of the most significant discoveries in modern astronomy, reshaping our understanding of the solar system’s structure.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/01/planet-x-telescope-could-uncover-mystery