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Texas Tech physicist helps confirm distant ‘super Jupiter’ using NASA satellite in new way
By KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS)
· July 1, 2026
· 3 min read
LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - A Texas Tech University physicist is part of an international research team that used NASA’s planet-hunting satellite in a new way to confirm the existence of a distant exoplanet nearly 40,000 light-years from Earth.Michael Fausnaugh, an assistant professor in the Departme...
Key takeaway The planet, called Gaia23bra b, is described as a super Jupiter orbiting far from its host star.
Why this matters in The Midland
The involvement of a Texas Tech University physicist in confirming a distant "super Jupiter" exoplanet is a notable achievement for the Permian Basin's academic community. This breakthrough demonstrates the region's growing presence in cutting-edge astronomical research, leveraging collaborations with international teams and utilizing NASA's resources. The use of gravitational microlensing with the TESS satellite showcases the innovative approaches being explored by local researchers, expanding the capabilities of exoplanet detection beyond traditional methods. As the Permian Basin continues to evolve as a hub for scientific inquiry, this discovery highlights the potential for regional institutions to contribute meaningfully to our understanding of the universe. With the findings set to be published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, the community can anticipate further recognition and potentially more collaborations, solidifying Midland 's connection to the broader scientific landscape.
About this story
Original reporting by KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) . The Midland surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 1, 2026 ·
Source: KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - A Texas Tech University physicist is part of an international research team that used NASA’s planet-hunting satellite in a new way to confirm the existence of a distant exoplanet nearly 40,000 light-years from Earth.Michael Fausnaugh, an assistant professor in the Departme...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 1, 2026 by KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) and curated for The Midland readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS). To learn more about how The Midland selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Midland, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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