serendipitous

This term describes a specific kind of luck where the discovery is not just accidental, but unexpectedly valuable. It carries a strong positive connotation, suggesting a sense of wonder or a "happy accident" that leads to a breakthrough or a pleasant surprise. In professional or academic contexts, it is often used to describe scientific discoveries made while looking for something else. It differs from simple luck in that it implies a level of openness or readiness to recognize the value of the unplanned event.