Faint-star TESS search adds two validated planets and 179 candidates
A search of faint stars in TESS data yielded a new catalogue for planetary follow-up. Of the newly reported signals, two were statistically validated as planets and 179 remain candidates. The preprint also estimates which targets a future ultraviolet observatory could study. These calculations do not constitute ultraviolet observations or confirmation of every object in the catalogue.
Science··Midday
Faint stars widen the search
A new search in data from the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, or TESS, focused on faint stars that have received less systematic attention. The arXiv preprint examined three fields planned for ULTRASAT, a future ultraviolet space observatory. Researchers looked for temporary dimming as a planet crosses its star. Their catalogue contains 262 candidates in total, including 181 newly reported objects. Two of the new objects passed statistical validation; 179 still await confirmation.[1]
Brightness signals need vetting
The analysis processed about 16 million light curves and targeted periods below 12 days. Calculations tested explanations involving eclipsing stars or light from neighbouring sources. Repeating the validation checks removed an initially promising object from the validated group. Some catalogue entries retain high false-positive probabilities, with flags identifying that uncertainty. Statistical validation assesses competing explanations for the brightness pattern; the work did not measure a dynamical mass for every candidate.[1]
Ultraviolet targets remain prospective
The team modelled which new and previously known objects might be measurable by ULTRASAT. That estimate identified 113 targets, comprising 30 new objects and 83 already known. It provides a prospective list for follow-up, rather than a completed ultraviolet survey. Combining optical and ultraviolet transits could inform atmospheric studies. The present data do not determine atmospheric properties or establish the planetary nature of all the catalogue entries.[1]
