CAPE CANAVERAL: NASA has confirmed the discovery of a rare ‘super Earth’ planet named TOI-1846 b, located approximately 154 light-years away, which emits a mysterious and repeated signal. This intriguing find has captivated scientists after being initially observed by NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS).
TOI-1846 b is nearly twice the size of Earth and four times as massive. It orbits a cool red dwarf star every four days, and its consistent dimming pattern caught the attention of researchers. The planet causes an unusual dip in the star’s brightness, noticed every March, sparking detailed follow-up studies.
Researchers have now confirmed the signal through both space and ground-based telescopes. Falling within the ‘radius gap’ — a planetary class between rocky worlds like Earth and gas giants like Neptune — TOI-1846 b is believed to have a solid core, a thick ice layer, and possibly even a shallow ocean or thin atmosphere.
The planet’s surface temperature is estimated to be around 600°F. Despite the heat, scientists suggest water might exist in some form. Its host star is a red dwarf, about 40% the size and mass of our Sun.
NASA now plans to study the planet’s atmosphere using the James Webb Space Telescope. If atmospheric conditions are favourable, the Webb telescope could detect water vapour, methane, carbon dioxide, or other vital gases.
