Ancient planet in M4 globular cluster

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Ancient planet in M4 globular cluster

Ancient planet. Artwork of a 13 billion-year-old gas giant planet with a rich background of stars in its home, the M4 globular star cluster. It was detected by Hubble Space Telescope measurements of the two stars (lower left) that it orbits: a white dwarf star, seen at right of a pulsar (B1620-26, neutron star) that is emitting two jets. The white dwarf star and pulsar are the remains of burnt-out stars. The planet is the oldest planet discovered, because globular star cluster stars were among the first to form in the universe. M4 is around 7000 light years away in the constellation of Scorpius. For the planets location, see image R614/244

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Media ID 6443217

© NASA/ESA/STSCI/G.BACON/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Alien Planetary System Ancient Binary Closest Cosmology Distant Early Extra Solar Gas Giant Globular Horizontal Neutron Oldest Pulsar Scorpius Star Stars Stellar Universe White Dwarf Farthest

EDITORS COMMENTS
This artwork showcases an ancient planet residing within the M4 globular cluster, a celestial neighborhood that dates back an astonishing 13 billion years. The Hubble Space Telescope's meticulous measurements revealed this gas giant planet, surrounded by a mesmerizing backdrop of countless stars. Positioned in the lower left corner are two stars: a white dwarf and a pulsar known as B1620-26. Emitting two powerful jets, the neutron star stands at the right side of this cosmic duo. Both the white dwarf and pulsar represent remnants of burnt-out stars, while their planetary companion holds the title for being the oldest planet ever discovered. This distinction arises from its location within a globular star cluster whose stellar inhabitants were among the first to form in our vast universe. Situated approximately 7,000 light-years away in Scorpius constellation, M4 unveils itself as an awe-inspiring testament to time's passage and cosmic evolution. The image R614/244 provides precise coordinates for locating this extraordinary exoplanet amidst its distant surroundings. Through this exquisite illustration, we catch a glimpse into an alien planetary system where ancient wonders unfold against a backdrop of stellar beauty. It serves as yet another reminder of humanity's insatiable curiosity about our place in space and our relentless pursuit to unravel its secrets through cosmological exploration.

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