Into the Impossible With Brian Keating

Planet 9 Evidence Revealed by Caltech Expert [Ep. 481]

Mar 2, 2025

In this engaging conversation, Konstantin Batygin, a Professor at Caltech and expert in planetary astrophysics, dives into the hunt for the elusive Planet 9. He discusses the strange gravitational forces affecting objects beyond Neptune and why proving Planet 9’s existence is so challenging. The discussion includes captivating insights into Jupiter’s magnetic field and its influence on the solar system. Batygin also shares the importance of new observational technology in this cosmic quest, offering a glimpse into the future of astronomical discovery.

01:44:24

Episode guests

Konstantin Batygin

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Quick takeaways

The search for Planet Nine hinges on understanding unusual orbital patterns among distant objects, which may indicate the gravitational pull of an unseen planet.

Computational N-body simulations have transformed astrophysical research but require careful statistical validation to avoid misleading conclusions about celestial dynamics.

Jupiter's early magnetic field played a crucial role in shaping its current characteristics and influencing the entire solar system's architecture.

Deep dives

Uncovering Planet Nine

The search for Planet Nine, a hypothetical large planet beyond Neptune, has gained momentum as astronomers analyze unusual orbital patterns of distant solar system objects. These objects demonstrate clustering behavior that suggests the gravitational influence of an unseen massive body. Research indicates that identifying Planet Nine could explain the observed alignment of these orbits, refuting contrary theories. The collaboration between observational and theoretical astrophysicists is essential to bridge the gap between simulated models and the reality of the night sky.

Intro

2min

Exploring the Quest for Planet Nine

8min

Exploring the Mysteries of the Solar System and Celestial Gifts

3min

Exploring the Dynamics of Planetary Orbits and Distribution

2min

Exploring the Mysteries of Planet Nine and Solar System Dynamics

3min

Exploring Planet 9: Data, Skepticism, and Simulations

10min

Exploring the Outer Solar System: The Role of Advanced Observations

3min

Searching for Planet 9: Design and Challenges

15min

Exploring Jupiter's Influence and Secrets

6min

10.

Exploring Brown Dwarfs and Jupiter's Role

4min

11.

The Thermodynamics of Planetary Formation and Entropy Insights

4min

12.

Unraveling Jupiter's Formation

41min

13.

Exploring Astrophysical Dynamics and Expert Appreciation

2min

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Astronomers have detected strange gravitational forces pulling at objects beyond Neptune. Some believe these forces could be caused by an undiscovered ninth planet—but if Planet 9 is real, why haven’t we found it yet? And if it doesn’t exist, what else could be shaping the outer edge of our solar system?

Here today to explore this issue and reveal extraordinary new evidence of Planet 9, is none other than Konstantin Batygin, one of the world’s foremost experts in this field. A professor at Caltech, Konstantin specializes in planetary astrophysics, the formation and evolution of the solar system, orbital dynamics, exoplanet behavior, and the physics of planetary interiors and atmospheres.

In this episode, he not only breaks down the latest evidence for Planet Nine but also shares insights from his research on Jupiter’s magnetic field. Plus, Konstantin gave us exclusive permission to feature his lecture on these topics—an unmissable opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field!

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