Astronomers have recently discovered 18 planets the size of Jupiter!

Astronomers added 18 planets to their list of massive planets revolving massive stars, increasing the known number of planets like this by 50%. This 2011 discovery is a huge milestone for researchers trying to figure out how planets form and grow in alien solar systems.

The massive planet haul came only a few months after another team of researchers found 50 planets, including one rocky one that could be a good candidate for life. For the alien enthusiasts out there, you should know that the number of known planets is now well over 700 and rapidly climbing.

The discovery of these planets are a result of astronomers and researchers observing 'retired' stars. These stars are much more massive than our sun, and our on the declining part of their lives.

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