Published in Nature Geoscience · View the paper (DOI)
A new study by University of Arizona researchers reveals a 'kiss and capture' mechanism for the formation of Pluto and its largest moon Charon. The discovery challenges decades of scientific assumptions about how planetary bodies form and evolve.
Coverage from 2 institutions
- Newly discovered 'kiss and capture' mechanism explains the formation of Pluto and its largest moon University of Arizona · Jan 6, 2025 · first to report
- SwRI models Pluto-Charon formation scenario that mimics Earth-Moon system Southwest Research Institute · Jan 7, 2025