The newly discovered ‘ninth’ planet is not Pluto

In August 2006, Pluto, the then 9th and farthest planet of the solar system, was removed from the esteemed position of a planet and was demoted to a ‘dwarf’ planet. It’s been a decade and a half since then. Yet, the ninth planet of the solar system has remained one of the most disputable subjects for scientists and layman alike. But now, after a lot of suspense and waiting, the astronomical community has finally found a substitute.  

‘Planet 9’: When can we expect the discovery? 
Yes, we are nearing the discovery of ‘Planet 9.’ For so long, the existence of ‘Planet 9’ was loosely based on its supposed gravitational pull on the neighbouring objects. But no concrete proof of its existence was ever found. But now, the brand-new evidence considers that the so-called ninth planet is in close proximity and more noticeable than previously imagined. 

Characteristics of the alleged ‘Planet 9’ 
Previously, it was thought that the ‘Planet 9’ completed a revolution in 18500 years. But recent research has brought it down to 7400 years, implying that it may be much closer to the sun than formerly thought. Scientists have also estimated that the planet may be six times the size of Earth as evident from its gravitational force. However, whether it’s ‘rocky’ in nature like our home planet or an amalgamation of heavy and dense gases like Neptune is still a mystery. 

Who are responsible for the discovery? 
Two astrophysicists from the California Institute of Technology named Mike Brown and Konstantin Batygin are deemed for this recent discovery. In fact, their approved findings are soon to be published in the Astronomical Journal. In a recent interview with NatGeo, Brown even declareded that the ‘Planet 9’ is only a handful of years away from being named and fully discovered. 

What a new planet in our solar system really means 
If the findings are correct, this new planet will change the age-old understanding of the solar system. The original number of planets will go back to nine, but it will not be because of Pluto. What we need to note is that there are experts who are still doubtful about the presence of this new enigma and believe that these gravitational footprints might be a false alarm. Nevertheless, a part of the astronomical community has formulated a ‘treasure map’ to help in the discovery of ‘Planet 9’ and claims that there is almost 99.6 per cent chance that the icy presence near Neptune is none other than the ‘Planet 9.’