From: lexfridman
Introduction
The concept of Planet Nine refers to a hypothetical ninth planet located in the outer solar system. This idea has been a topic of significant interest and discussion in the field of planetary astrophysics. According to planetary astrophysicist Constantine Batygin, Planet Nine is believed to exist beyond the orbit of Neptune, with an orbital period of about 10,000 years and a mass approximately five times that of Earth [01:18].
Evidence and Characteristics
Orbital Characteristics
Planet Nine is hypothesized to have an eccentric and slightly tilted orbit compared to the other planets in the solar system [01:00:28]. The existence of Planet Nine is proposed based on the gravitational clustering of several Trans-Neptunian Objects (TNOs). These objects share similar angular momentum orientations, a pattern that could be explained by the gravitational influence of a massive, distant planet [01:02:01].
Gravitational Influence
Planet Nine’s gravitational effects are thought to cause the alignment of TNO orbits with long periods and large semi-major axes, which is a departure from what would be expected if these objects were influenced only by known planets [01:01:40]. The presence of objects with orbits highly inclined or perpendicular to the plane of the solar system is another anomaly adequately explained by the Planet Nine hypothesis [01:02:19].
An Alternative Explanation: Primordial Black Hole
Some astrophysicists speculate whether Planet Nine might not be a planet at all but a primordial black hole. This alternative hypothesis arises from the difficulties in directly observing such a distant and dim object. Since black holes do not emit light, a primordial black hole of similar mass could exert similar gravitational influences without being directly observable [01:20:01].
Searching for Planet Nine
The search for Planet Nine involves scanning the sky with telescopes to find a faint, reflecting body far from the Sun. Detection would rely on observing reflected sunlight, which would confirm the existence of a large, distant object [01:09:35]. Future surveys, such as those conducted by the Vera Rubin Observatory, are anticipated to provide more data that could either support or refute the Planet Nine hypothesis [01:52:10].
Conclusion
The Planet Nine hypothesis remains one of the most intriguing topics in modern astronomy, suggesting a new understanding of our solar system’s structure. Its confirmation would not only resolve existing anomalies in our observations of TNOs but also add a profound new dimension to theories of solar system formation and evolution. Whether Planet Nine is a planet or a possibility of a primordial black hole remains a question of significant scientific intrigue and investigation.