Dimidium is a notable exoplanet in the study of planetary systems outside our Solar System. It was discovered orbiting the star HD 85512, located in the constellation Vela. Its characteristics as a Hot Neptune provide valuable insights into the nature of exoplanetary atmospheres and the formation and evolution of planetary systems.

1. 1. Physical Characteristics

• • • Type: Dimidium is classified as a Hot Neptune or Mini-Neptune, which means it is a Neptune-like planet with a gas giant-like atmosphere but is smaller in size compared to Uranus or Neptune.
    • Radius: It is about 2.3 times the radius of Earth.
    • Mass: Dimidium has a mass of approximately 14.7 Earth masses.
    • Density: Its density is lower than Earth’s, consistent with a planet having a thick atmosphere of hydrogen and helium.

 

1. 2. Orbit

• • • Host Star: Dimidium orbits the star HD 85512, which is a K-dwarf star.
    • Distance from Star: The planet orbits its star at about 0.22 AU (Astronomical Units), which is relatively close to the star.
    • Orbital Period: It completes one orbit around HD 85512 in approximately 9.7 Earth days.

 

1. 3. Temperature

Due to its proximity to its host star, Dimidium likely has high surface temperatures. The exact temperature can vary based on atmospheric conditions and the planet’s ability to retain heat.

 

1. 4. Discovery

Dimidium was discovered using the radial velocity method, which involves detecting variations in the star’s motion caused by the gravitational influence of an orbiting planet.

 

1. 5. Scientific Significance

• • • Atmospheric Study: Studying exoplanets like Dimidium helps scientists understand the diversity of planetary atmospheres, especially those that are not directly comparable to planets in our Solar System.
    • Planetary Formation: Observations of planets like Dimidium contribute to our understanding of how different types of planets form and evolve, particularly those that are intermediate in size between Earth and Neptune.

 

1. 6. Interesting Facts

Dimidium’s name is derived from the Latin word for “half,” reflecting its discovery and characteristics as part of the cataloguing of exoplanets.