GoKawiilRubin Observatory team identifies possible sixth dwarf planet, ED138
Researchers at the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, led by Matthew Holman, have identified a trans-Neptunian object called ED138 that may qualify as a dwarf planet. The object was first flagged by object-tracking software Holman wrote with Kevin Napier, then confirmed in archival data stretching back to 2016 using the Dark Energy Camera and the Asteroid Institute's precovery service. Preliminary estimates put ED138's diameter between 600 and 1,500 kilometers, within the range needed for gravity to pull it into a round shape.
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If confirmed, ED138 would become only the sixth recognized dwarf planet in the solar system, a notably rare classification compared to the tens of thousands of asteroids catalogued annually. The find also demonstrates the value of Rubin Observatory's automated detection software, which researchers suggest could uncover more such objects as its survey continues. Formal classification would likely require further observation and review by bodies like the International Astronomical Union.
- Rubin Observatory researchers spotted a candidate sixth dwarf planet, ED138.
- Archival data traces sightings of the object back to 2016, aiding confirmation.
- Its estimated 600-1,500 km width puts it in the size range for dwarf planet status.
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Published there as: “Researchers May Have Discovered the 6th Dwarf Planet”
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