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Rubin Observatory spots its first dwarf-planet candidate

Original: another tiny dot, another large possibility Read Rubin Observatory’s account of its first dwarf-planet candidate. Rubin

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory has announced its first dwarf-planet candidate, an object designated 2026 ED138 in the outer solar system. The observatory describes it as a possible dwarf planet, with further observations needed to confirm its nature. The find is an early demonstration of the survey's ability to detect small, distant bodies.

Why now: It is an early scientific discovery from the newly operational Rubin Observatory, showing the survey's potential.

Vera C. Rubin Observatory2026 ED138

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• another tiny dot, another large possibility Read Rubin Observatory’s account of its first dwarf-planet candidate. Rubin Observatory has found 2026 ED138, a possible dwarf planet hiding in the outer solar system. “Possible” is doing useful work here: finding the object and… · hitch@tacobout.online · 2

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