Asteroid grains shed light on the outer solar system’s origins

A weak magnetic field likely pulled matter inward to form the outer planetary bodies, from Jupiter to Neptune.

Jennifer Chu | MIT News • mit
Nov. 6, 2024 ~8 min

Scientists discover molecules that store much of the carbon in space

The discovery of pyrene derivatives in a distant interstellar cloud may help to reveal how our own solar system formed.

Anne Trafton | MIT News • mit
Oct. 24, 2024 ~8 min


Mars’ missing atmosphere could be hiding in plain sight

A new study shows Mars’ early thick atmosphere could be locked up in the planet’s clay surface.

Jennifer Chu | MIT News • mit
Sept. 25, 2024 ~8 min

A wobble from Mars could be sign of dark matter, MIT study finds

Watching for changes in the Red Planet’s orbit over time could be new way to detect passing dark matter.

Jennifer Chu | MIT News • mit
Sept. 17, 2024 ~9 min

3 Questions: Evidence for planetary formation through gravitational instability

Assistant Professor Richard Teague describes how movement of unstable gas in a protoplanetary disk lends credibility to a secondary theory of planetary formation.

Paige Colley | EAPS • mit
Sept. 4, 2024 ~4 min

Study: Rocks from Mars’ Jezero Crater, which likely predate life on Earth, contain signs of water

The presence of organic matter is inconclusive, but the rocks could be scientists’ best chance at finding remnants of ancient Martian life.

Jennifer Chu | MIT News • mit
Aug. 14, 2024 ~8 min

Scientists pin down the origins of the moon’s tenuous atmosphere

The barely-there lunar atmosphere is likely the product of meteorite impacts over billions of years, a new study finds.

Jennifer Chu | MIT News • mit
Aug. 2, 2024 ~8 min

Astronomers spot a highly “eccentric” planet on its way to becoming a hot Jupiter

The planet’s wild orbit offers clues to how such large, hot planets take shape.

Jennifer Chu | MIT News • mit
July 17, 2024 ~9 min


Study: Weaker ocean circulation could enhance CO2 buildup in the atmosphere

New findings challenge current thinking on the ocean’s role in storing carbon.

Jennifer Chu | MIT News • mit
July 8, 2024 ~8 min

Study: Titan’s lakes may be shaped by waves

MIT researchers find wave activity on Saturn’s largest moon may be strong enough to erode the coastlines of lakes and seas.

Jennifer Chu | MIT News • mit
June 19, 2024 ~9 min

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