description Pi Mensae c Overview
Pi Mensae c is an exoplanet orbiting the G-type main-sequence star Pi Mensae, located approximately 60 light-years from Earth. Discovered in 2018 by NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), it holds the distinction of being the very first exoplanet candidate identified by the mission. It is classified as a super-Earth or sub-Neptune, with a mass roughly four times that of Earth, and completes an orbit around its host star every six days.
help Pi Mensae c FAQ
What space telescope discovered Pi Mensae c?
NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) identified Pi Mensae c as its very first exoplanet candidate. TESS officially began its science operations in 2018 and immediately picked up the transit signature of this planet.
How does Pi Mensae c compare to planets in our solar system?
Pi Mensae c is classified as a "super-Earth," meaning it has a larger mass and radius than Earth but is likely smaller than Neptune. It has a mass roughly 4.8 times that of Earth and a radius about twice that of our planet.
How long is a year on Pi Mensae c?
A year on this exoplanet is incredibly short, lasting only about 6.3 Earth days. This brief orbital period is due to its extremely close proximity to its host star, Pi Mensae, which heats the planet to scorching temperatures.
Are there other planets in the Pi Mensae system?
Yes, there is another known planet in the system called Pi Mensae b, which is a massive gas giant. Discovered in 2001, Pi Mensae b has a highly eccentric orbit that takes over 2,000 Earth days to complete.
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