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Star system: astronomers have discovered three Earth-sized planets orbiting a binary star system known as TOI-2267
Close proximity: the system is located 190 lightyears from Earth, which is considered relatively nearby in astronomical terms
Binary nature: the two stars in the system are cool and orbit each other at a distance just eight times the distance between Earth and the Sun
Record breakers: this discovery represents the coldest and most compact pair of stars known to host planets
Transit first: the study marks the first time planets have been recorded transiting around both stars in a binary system
Unusual formation: compact systems like this were thought to be too unstable for planets to form and survive
Detection tools: researchers identified the worlds using specialised software called SHERLOCK alongside ground-based telescopes like SPECULOOS
Theory challenge: the existence of these worlds forces scientists to rethink current models regarding how planets evolve in extreme environments
Future research: experts hope to use the James Webb Space Telescope to further investigate the stability and atmosphere of these planets
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