Vera Rubin Observatory Identifies Potential Sixth Dwarf Planet Beyond Neptune
Astronomers have identified a large, bright object beyond Neptune’s orbit, designated 2026 ED138, which may be the solar system’s sixth confirmed dwarf planet. Discovered using data from the Vera Rubin Observatory, the body is estimated to be between 600 and 1,500 kilometers wide, making it a strong candidate for spherical shape due to gravity. While its existence is confirmed by multiple observations dating back to 2016, its official classification as a dwarf planet requires further infrared measurements to verify its size and shape. The discovery highlights the potential of the Rubin Observatory’s ongoing survey to uncover hidden bodies in the outer solar system.