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Orphan or 'rogue' planets may be common, rather than an exception, at least in the galaxy.
http://news.yahoo.com/orphan-alien-planet-found-nearby-without-parent-star-122308193.html
But how common?
http://news.yahoo.com/orphan-alien-planet-found-nearby-without-parent-star-122308193.html
Astronomers have discovered a potential "rogue" alien planet wandering alone just 100 light-years from Earth, suggesting that such starless worlds may be extremely common across the galaxy.
The free-floating object, called CFBDSIR2149, is likely a gas giant planet four to seven times more massive than Jupiter, scientists say in a new study unveiled today (Nov. 14). The planet cruises unbound through space relatively close to Earth (in astronomical terms), perhaps after being booted from its own solar system.
. . . .
But how common?