Possible new dwarf planet identified orbiting beyond Pluto
Astronomers say the object is among the largest outer-solar-system finds in decades, but they still need more data to confirm its round shape.
- On October 27, 2026, astronomers announced the Vera C. Rubin Observatory spotted a candidate that could become the 6th known dwarf planet, designated 2026 ED138, orbiting beyond Pluto.
- Astronomer Matthew Holman discovered the candidate using Rubin Observatory data and powerful algorithms to peer through 'galactic camouflage' near the Milky Way, which had previously obscured the object.
- Estimates suggest the object spans roughly 370 to 970 miles in diameter and orbits at about 46 astronomical units , maintaining a 7:12 resonance with Neptune—farther than Pluto's 40 AU average.
- The International Astronomical Union Minor Planet Center is considering ED138 for official recognition as a dwarf planet. If confirmed, it would join Pluto, Eris, Haumea, Makemake, and Ceres.
- Soon, astronomers may point the James Webb Space Telescope at ED138 to identify potential moons and refine its physical characteristics. Rubin's 10-year survey continues, potentially revealing further hidden objects in the southern sky.
294 Articles
294 Articles
It could be a new world within our solar system. A dwarf planet hitherto unknown, glimpsed for the first time thanks to the Vera C. Rubin Observatory in the icy and dark depths of space, far beyond Pluto’s orbit. It is called 2026 ED138 and, if first estimates are confirmed, it could be among the largest bodies discovered so far on that remote border. Astronomers have estimated that its diameter ranges from 600 to 1,500 kilometers. The fork is w…
The Solar System still hides worlds to be discovered. The Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile has identified a frozen object that can join the family of dwarf planets. It is called 2026 ED138 and will have between 600 and 1500 kilometers in diameter. For decades, we learned that the Solar System had nine planets. Then, Pluto changed its category and [...]
Named 2026 ED138, it would be between 600 and 1,500 kilometers in diameter, according to preliminary estimates.
New Planet 2026 ED138: The planet has been named 2026 ED138 for now. Scientists believe it is a dwarf planet.
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