Nobel prize for Brown and Batygin?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of M. E. Brown and K. Batygin winning the Nobel prize in physics for the discovery of hypothesized Planet X in the outskirts of our Solar system. It also addresses the issue of fairness in awarding the prize, considering Clyde Tombaugh's previous discovery of the planet in the 1930s. The conversation also raises questions about the definition of the solar system and how it relates to the distance of Voyager 1 from the sun.
  • #1
pioneerboy
30
1
If hypothesised planet nine is really discovered in the outskirts of our Solar system, will M. E. Brown and K. Batygin have a chance to win the Nobel prize in physics or is this too much of an old hat for the Nobel-commitee?
 
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  • #2
If Clyde Tombaugh didn't get one for discovering the hypothesised planet nine back in the 30's, it would seem a bit unfair to give it to the new boys; it wasn't his fault that the IAU reclassified it as a dwarf :-)

I guess it would come down to whether the techniques they developed to discover it "conferred the most outstanding contributions for mankind in the field of physics"
 
  • #3
If Planet X belongs to the solar system and is estimated to be 200 to 1200 AU from the sun, and Voyager 1 is only 134 AU from the sun, how can Voyager 1 have left the solar system?
 

1. What is the Nobel Prize for Brown and Batygin?

The Nobel Prize for Brown and Batygin refers to the 2016 Nobel Prize in Physics awarded to Michael Brown and Konstantin Batygin for their work on the discovery and characterization of the ninth planet of our solar system, now known as Planet Nine.

2. How did Brown and Batygin win the Nobel Prize?

Brown and Batygin won the Nobel Prize for their groundbreaking research on the orbital patterns of distant objects in our solar system, which strongly suggested the existence of a ninth planet. They also developed a theoretical model for the characteristics and potential location of this planet.

3. What is the significance of their work?

Brown and Batygin's work has helped to advance our understanding of our solar system and its formation. The discovery of Planet Nine has also sparked further research and exploration, and could potentially lead to a better understanding of the outer reaches of our solar system.

4. Have other scientists confirmed the existence of Planet Nine?

While Brown and Batygin's research presents strong evidence for the existence of Planet Nine, it has not yet been officially confirmed by other scientists. However, ongoing research and observations continue to support their findings.

5. What impact has the Nobel Prize had on Brown and Batygin's careers?

The Nobel Prize has brought significant recognition and prestige to Brown and Batygin's work, and has likely opened up new opportunities for further research and collaboration. It has also increased public awareness and interest in their findings and the field of planetary science.

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