# Rubin Observatory data reveal large candidate for sixth dwarf planet

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/boffins-software-found-a-possible-dwarf-planet-a-result-so-rare-he-thought-it-must-be-a-bug/
- Published: 2026-10-29T05:06:42+00:00
- Updated: 2026-10-29T05:47:23+00:00
- Original publisher: The Register
- Original article: https://www.theregister.com/science/2026/10/29/boffins-software-found-a-possible-dwarf-planet-a-result-so-rare-he-thought-it-must-be-a-bug/5306204
- Topics: Software, Technology

## Key points

- Rubin Observatory data revealed a strong dwarf-planet candidate.
- 2026 ED138 orbits about 46 astronomical units from the Sun.
- It may be 600 to 1,500 kilometres wide.

## Summary

A scientist analysing pre-operation data from the Rubin Observatory has identified 2026 ED138, a strong candidate for the Solar System’s sixth known dwarf planet. The discovery matters because the distant object may be unusually large and could be the smallest dwarf planet yet observed.

The object orbits about 46 astronomical units from the Sun, compared with Pluto’s average distance of 40, and is estimated to be 600 to 1,500 kilometres across. Researchers found ten years of supporting records after the search software flagged it on 13 October; the Minor Planet Center reviewed the work and announced the discovery. ED138 may have gone unnoticed because it lies near the Milky Way’s crowded plane, and its dwarf-planet status remains to be confirmed.

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