Webb Telescope Discovers Hidden Atmosphere on Molten Super-Earth TOI-561 b Despite Extreme Heat
Webb Telescope Discovers Hidden Atmosphere on Molten Super-Earth TOI-561 b
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has made a groundbreaking discovery, uncovering a hidden atmosphere on a super-Earth exoplanet called TOI-561 b. According to reports, the telescope's advanced sensors have detected the presence of atmospheric gases on this scorching hot world, which orbits a nearby star.
What is TOI-561 b?
TOI-561 b is a super-Earth exoplanet located approximately 100 light-years from Earth. It was discovered in 2020 by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) mission, which detected the planet's periodic dimming of its host star. Initial observations suggested that TOI-561 b was a rocky world with a surface temperature of around 2,500°F (1,370°C), making it a prime target for further study.
According to NASA, the JWST was designed to study the atmospheres of exoplanets in unprecedented detail. The telescope's advanced spectrographic capabilities allow it to analyze the light passing through a planet's atmosphere, revealing the presence of various gases and molecules.
Atmospheric Composition
Using its Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam), the JWST detected the presence of water vapor, carbon dioxide, and methane in the atmosphere of TOI-561 b. These findings suggest that the planet's atmosphere is more complex than initially thought, with a mix of gases that could be indicative of geological activity.
| Gas | Concentration |
|---|---|
| Water Vapor | 10^-4 |
| Carbon Dioxide | 10^-3 |
| Methane | 10^-6 |
Conclusion
The discovery of TOI-561 b's hidden atmosphere is a significant breakthrough in the field of exoplanetary science. According to reports, the JWST's findings have provided new insights into the planet's geological and atmospheric processes, shedding light on the possibility of life beyond Earth.
The James Webb Space Telescope has proven itself to be a powerful tool for studying the atmospheres of exoplanets. As the telescope continues to explore the universe, it is likely to uncover many more secrets about the hidden worlds that surround us.