Discovery of Second Ring Around Dwarf Planet Quaoar Defies Expectations

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Source: Phys.org
Discovery of Second Ring Around Dwarf Planet Quaoar Defies Expectations
Photo: Phys.org
TL;DR Summary

Astronomers have discovered a second ring around the dwarf planet Quaoar, which lies beyond the Roche limit, contradicting theories on how moons and rings form. The rings were found indirectly when Quaoar passed over light from distant stars behind it. The discovery of the second ring has led some to question current theories on moon and ring formation, while others suggest the rings could have formed due to the location of Quaoar's small moon, Weywot.

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