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Monday, November 23, 2009

Photo: Red Giant Sun May Not Destroy Earth


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The planet V391 Pegasi b has been pushed out to twice its original orbit as its host star reaches the maximum expansion of its red giant phase, as seen in this artist's conception.

The planet is the first known inner body to survive its star becoming a red giant, scientists say—offering hope that Earth might not be destroyed when the sun expands in billions of years.

Image by Mark Garlick © HELAS