Word: planetsized
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Dates: during 1990-1999
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Nisenson, who is also an associate at the Harvard College Observatory, said planets are too small for scientists to see using current technology.
Unfortunately, this method of detection has its drawbacks. It is only sensitive enough to detect planets of massive size that are also in close proximity to a star.
Such planets, however, are unlikely to exist, as large planets typically form some distance from their sun.
"[The fact that so many have been found] suggests that planets themselves are quite prevalent," Nisenson said.
Although scientists have found individual planets orbiting other stars, this was the first time a star was found with multiple planets, said Peter Nisenson, a member of the team at Harvard that made the discovery.