The planet, which is known as "PSR J1719-1438", is believed to be the remnants of a "companion" pulsar that burned out. It's only the second documented instance of such an occurrence. In all other cases, the dying star gets absorbed by the remaining star in the system.
Scientists theorize that the ultra high pressures caused by the rapidly pulsing neutron star it orbits, have caused it to condense and crystallize to the point that it is only 12 miles across. The solar system is 4,000 light years away.
In related news, Congressional Republicans have demanded the immediate reinstatement of the Shuttle program, as well as unlimited funding for a manned mission to PSR J1719-1438. I'm being sarcastic, people.
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