In a remarkable cosmic observation, astronomers have detected an unusual exoplanet, BD+05 4868 Ab, slowly breaking apart as it orbits perilously close to its parent star. Situated roughly 140 light-years from Earth in the Pegasus constellation, the planet is shedding material that trails behind it like a comet’s tail. This rare phenomenon, recorded by NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) represents just the fourth such instance ever documented and is notably the nearest disintegrating exoplanet discovered to date. Venus, Saturn and Moon To Form ‘Smiley Face’ in Sky on April 25: How To Watch the Rare ‘Cosmic Emoji’ Planetary Alignment From India? Everything To Know About the Celestial Event.

Disintegrating Exoplanet BD+05 4868 Ab

Completing a revolution around its star every 30.5 hours, BD+05 4868 Ab lies around twenty times closer to its star than Mercury is to the Sun. The scorching temperatures exceeding 1,600°C are believed to transform the planet’s outer layers into molten rock that evaporates into space. This vaporised matter forms an extensive dust plume spanning nearly 5.6 million miles,  a structure that almost wraps halfway around the host star. This cosmic spectacle presents astronomers with a rare chance to examine the breakdown of terrestrial worlds and gain deeper insight into their mineral makeup. Satellite Launchpad in Gujarat: State Identifies Kutch and Dholera As Suitable Sites To Build Launchpad for Space Missions, Says Report.

How Does Planet Form Comet-Like Tale?

Due to its dangerously tight orbit, the planet is subjected to relentless stellar radiation, which strips its surface and releases fine particles into space. These tiny mineral fragments ranging from one to ten microns across, create a visible trail that astronomers observe using the transit method. This technique measures the star’s brightness dips as the planet and its dusty appendage pass in front. Interestingly, the tail not only trails behind the planet but also arcs forward along its orbital path, an unusual feature that accentuates the fading light curve.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 23, 2025 08:46 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).