Scientists have discovered that Uranus emits about 12.5% more heat than it receives from the Sun, contradicting Voyager 2’s 1986 findings that suggested it had little internal heat.

Using decades of spacecraft data and computer models, researchers found Uranus is still losing leftover heat from its formation, offering clues about its origins and evolution.

This discovery could reshape theories about the planet’s structure and history, and inform future NASA mission planning, Space.com has reported.

The findings also help scientists better understand planetary atmospheres and may even offer insights into Earth’s climate systems.

Written by B.C. Begley