Outer planets could be rocky giants

(CONNECT) Researchers at the University of Zurich (UZH) and the National Center of Competence in Research NCCR PlanetS have developed a new theory about the composition of the two outer planets Uranus and Neptune. According to a press release, the two planets could be so-called rocky giants. According to previous theories, they were rather described as ice-rich. The new investigations are also consistent with findings that the dwarf planet Pluto consists mainly of rock.

The research team led by Luca Morf has developed a new model that simulates the interior of the two planets. "The classification as ice giants may be oversimplified, as the two planets are poorly understood," Luca Morf, UZH PhD student and lead author of the study, is quoted as saying in the press release. "Until now, physical models were based on too many assumptions and empirical models were too simplistic. We have combined both approaches to obtain new, neutral and physically consistent models."

The calculated model was compared with the data of an observed planetary gravitational field. This mathematical process was repeated until the model had adapted to the realities of the observations and measurements. The researchers admit that due to a lack of knowledge about the behavior of the materials under the pressure and temperature conditions in the interior of a planet, it is not possible to definitively decide whether they are ice or rocky giants. Ravit Helled, UZH Professor at the Institute of Astrophysics and Director of UZH Space, sees targeted missions to Uranus and Neptune as a possible solution. ce/ww