Astronomers have made a remarkable discovery of a rare quadruple star system known as TIC 120362137, leveraging data from the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). This intricate system consists of a tightly bound triplet of stars that orbit closely around one another, accompanied by a more distant fourth star. The fourth star is situated at a distance comparable to that of Jupiter from the Sun, while the internal triple star system could fit entirely within the orbit of Mercury, the closest planet to the Sun.

The significance of TIC 120362137 lies in its classification as a '3+1' system, which is exceptionally uncommon in the cosmos. This discovery is crucial for advancing our understanding of stellar formation and long-term orbital stability. Researchers believe that studying systems like TIC 120362137 could provide insights into the complexities of star formation and the dynamics of such compact systems within the universe. The lead researcher emphasized that TIC 120362137 currently holds the title of the most compact known quadruple system of the 3+1 type.

This discovery contributes to the growing body of knowledge regarding star systems and their formation processes. It highlights the technological advancements achieved through missions like TESS that enable astronomers to detect and analyze celestial systems previously beyond our reach. The study of TIC 120362137 may open new avenues for research and exploration in the field of astrophysics, particularly concerning how stars interact and evolve within such dense configurations, paving the way for future discoveries in similar areas.