Aliens could use rogue planets as spaceships to visit Earth.
Aliens could use rogue planets to visit Earth
A recent study found that extraterrestrials are more likely to arrive on Earth on a small planet rather than a flying saucer because it is more efficient.
Scientists are unsure about how many tiny planets are in the galaxy and they are notoriously difficult to detect.
Irina Romanovskaya, a professor of physics and astronomy who carried out the research, said: "This increases the chance that some advanced extraterrestrial civilisations, if they exist, might hitch a ride on free-floating planets.
"Which is why I call hypothetical civilisations Cosmic Hitchhikers. Extraterrestrials could use free-floating planets to transport large groups or populations escaping oncoming existential threats."
She added: "Free-floating planets can provide constant surface gravity.
"ETs could use controlled nuclear fusion as a source of energy. And they could inhabit subsurface habitats and oceans."