Densest Planet Discovered

[n2doc]

Tiny space telescope reveals 'super-Earth'


BY MARGARET MUNRO, POSTMEDIA NEWS APRIL 29, 2011


Canada's tiny space telescope has unmasked a "super-Earth" that has an international team of astronomers, including University of B.C.'s Jaymie Matthews, buzzing.

The planet, named 55 Cancri e, is the densest solid planet known and whips around its star in just 18 hours, according to the team that released its findings Thursday.

"You could set dates on this world by your wrist watch," said Matthews.

Not that there is much chance of life on the planet, he said, noting that the surface temperature is believed to be close to 2,700 C. Despite the inferno, the astronomers say the planet may retain an atmosphere because of its strong gravity.

"It's so exotic, it's like the poster child for rocky super-Earths," Matthews added.

Read more: http://www.vancouversun.com/technology/Tiny+space+telescope+reveals+super+Earth/4694986/story.html

Dense planet = home of the Birthers?

[Keith Bee]

1. I suggest naming it "Palin"

[Kurovski]

2. Good zing at end.

Maybe we can send them there, anyway?