Hypotheses for JUMBOs (Jupiter-mass Binary Objects)

1. Gravitational Fragmentation

JUMBOs are the result of gravitational fragmentation of massive gas and dust clouds in the Orion Nebula. Unlike typical star formation, which requires a certain mass to initiate nuclear fusion, these fragments never reach the critical mass and hence remain as planet-sized objects.

2. Ejected Planetary Objects

They are former planets or brown dwarfs that were ejected from their original planetary systems. This could be due to gravitational interactions with other massive bodies in the system, resulting in them traveling freely through space.

3. Binary Coalescence

JUMBOs formed through the collision and subsequent fusion of smaller celestial bodies. The binary pairs might have originated from simultaneous or successive coalescence events, leading to their current state.

4. Unidentified Physical Phenomenon

This involves the introduction of new physics or unknown astrophysical processes not currently accounted for in existing theories. Under certain conditions, gravitational and thermodynamic processes allow for the formation of such bodies contrary to current understanding.

5. Alien Engineering

JUMBOs are the result of advanced alien civilizations engineering on a massive scale.

6. Quantum Fluctuation

Quantum fluctuations in the early stages of the Orion Nebula's development led to the creation of these objects. These fluctuations could have resulted in areas of higher density that, formed JUMBOs without following traditional star formation pathways.

7. Dark Matter Interaction

Interactions with dark matter in the nebula significantly influenced the formation of JUMBOs. This interaction might alter the conventional gravitational collapse process, leading to the formation of these planet-sized objects.

I will resolve to the option that is closest if and when there is a scientific consensus. For the sake of resolving ambiguity, I will use Wikipedia as the primary source.

If further hypotheses emerge that are sufficiently distinct from the ones given, I will add them as options.

I will not bet in this market.