Astronomers have identified 27 potential planets that may orbit two stars—an arrangement once thought to exist only in science fiction—while new financial data shows a major shift in India’s stock market toward institutional investors. The findings highlight both advances in space exploration and evolving dynamics in one of the world’s fastest-growing equity markets.
Discovery of 27 Possible “Two-Sun” Planets
New Method Expands Planet Search
Astronomers analyzing data from NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) have identified 27 candidate planets that may orbit binary star systems. These so-called “circumbinary planets” circle two stars instead of one, similar to the fictional planet Tatooine from Star Wars.
To date, scientists have confirmed only about 18 such planets, compared with more than 6,000 planets discovered around single stars like Earth’s Sun. The newly identified candidates are located between 650 and 18,000 light-years from Earth and could range in size from Neptune-like worlds to gas giants larger than Jupiter.
Innovative Detection Technique
The research, led by astronomers Ben Montet and Margo Thornton, used a technique known as apsidal precession. This method tracks subtle changes in the orbital motion of binary stars to detect the gravitational influence of hidden objects, such as planets.
Traditionally, astronomers have relied on the transit method, which detects planets when they pass in front of a star and block its light. However, that approach depends on precise alignment with Earth, meaning many planets go undetected.
By examining 1,590 binary star systems, researchers identified 36 systems with evidence of a third object. Of those, 27 are considered strong planetary candidates, though further confirmation is needed.
Implications for Future Research
Independent astrophysicists say the method could significantly expand the search for exoplanets. Planets orbiting two stars may experience extreme environmental conditions, including fluctuating temperatures and complex gravitational forces.
The study was published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, underscoring growing interest in unconventional planetary systems.
Indian Stock Market Sees Structural Shift
Retail Participation Declines
In a separate development, new data shows a notable shift in ownership patterns within India’s stock market. Individual investors’ share in companies listed on the National Stock Exchange fell to a five-year low of 9.11% as of March 31, 2026.
Retail investors and high-net-worth individuals both reduced their holdings during the quarter, with combined net selling totaling approximately ₹13,134 crore (about $1.6 billion).
Mutual Funds Gain Ground
At the same time, domestic mutual funds continued to expand their influence. Their ownership rose to a record 11.46%, marking the eleventh consecutive quarter of growth.
This trend reflects a broader move toward professionally managed investments. In 2012, mutual funds accounted for just 3.21% of market ownership, compared with 8.51% held by individuals. Today, mutual funds have overtaken individual investors.
Foreign Investors Pull Back
Foreign institutional investors (FIIs), long a dominant force in Indian equities, reduced their holdings to a 14-year low of 16.13%. The gap between mutual fund and foreign ownership has narrowed significantly, signaling a shift toward domestic capital.
During the quarter, mutual funds recorded net inflows of ₹1.42 lakh crore, while foreign investors posted net outflows exceeding ₹1.3 lakh crore.
Domestic Institutions Strengthen Control
Domestic institutional investors (DIIs), including mutual funds, insurance companies, and banks, increased their total market share to a record 19.24%. Combined with individual investors, domestic ownership reached 28.34%, indicating growing local control over market direction.
Sector allocation trends also shifted. Domestic investors increased exposure to healthcare while reducing holdings in information technology. Meanwhile, foreign investors raised their allocation to commodities and trimmed financial services positions.
Market Outlook: Oil Prices and Global Tensions Weigh on Sentiment
India’s stock market is expected to remain under pressure in the near term, driven by rising crude oil prices, continued foreign capital outflows, and geopolitical uncertainty.
In the most recent session, the benchmark Nifty index fell 0.73% to close at 24,000, while the Sensex dropped 0.78% to 76,891. Oil-sensitive sectors led the decline as crude prices remained elevated above $100 per barrel.
Global tensions, particularly concerns about potential escalation between the United States and Iran, have added to investor caution. Brent crude continues to trade near $108 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate hovers around $101.
Currency fluctuations are also a key concern. The Indian rupee recently hit a record low against the U.S. dollar before recovering slightly, reflecting pressure from high oil prices and capital outflows.
Conclusion
From the discovery of potential two-sun planets to shifting investment patterns in India’s stock market, recent developments highlight both scientific innovation and economic transformation. While astronomers push the boundaries of planetary science, India’s financial markets are increasingly shaped by domestic institutional investors, signaling a long-term shift in market structure and resilience.
Chris Skeldon is a contributor to Brytfmonline.com, covering a wide range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on delivering clear, accurate, and reader-friendly reporting that helps audiences stay informed about current events and emerging developments. With an emphasis on useful information and balanced storytelling, Chris aims to provide timely coverage of issues and stories that matter most to readers.