"Unveiling a Denser-Than-Steel Neptune-sized Exoplanet: Evidence of Catastrophic Collision?"

Scientists have discovered an exoplanet, TOI-1538b, that is denser than steel and poses a challenge to planetary formation theories. The planet's density suggests that it may have formed through multiple catastrophic collisions, which removed lighter atmospheric gases and water, leaving behind a rocky core. This finding provides new evidence for the prevalence of giant impacts in the formation of planets throughout the galaxy and helps connect theories for planet formation based on our solar system to the formation of exoplanets. Further observations of TOI-1538b will provide insights into its atmosphere and composition.