The James Webb Space Telescope has detected for the first time “clear” evidence of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere of an exoplanet located in a system about 700 light-years from Earth.
WASP-39b is a gas giant planet orbiting a star similar in composition and size to the Sun. The composition of the atmosphere of this planet is important for scientists to understand its origin and the process of evolution over time, leading to progress US space agency (NASA).
The discovery was made using the Near Infrared Spectroscopic Telescope, and is one of several pieces of equipment that make up James Webb – launched on December 25, 2021 that are in an orbit of about 1.5 million kilometers from Earth. In addition to WASP-39b, the investigation also intends to analyze two other planets.
“Carbon dioxide molecules are sensitive markers of planet formation historyMike Lane, a professor in the School of Earth and Space Exploration at Arizona State University explains. “By measuring this characteristic of carbon dioxide, we can determine the amount of solid versus the amount of gaseous material used to form this gas giant planet.‘, a measurement that will be taken by the team of researchers who direct the James Webb Telescope project.
The researchers were able to determineA clear sign of carbon dioxide“, explains Natalie Batalha, professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the University of California and team leader. The James Webb Telescope allows us to measure the abundance of gases by “A slight difference in brightness that is transmitted by light across the wavelength spectrum to determine exactly what the atmosphere is made of“.
Previous investigations – using the Hubble and Spiutzer telescopes – made it possible to determine water vapor, sodium and potassium in the atmosphere of WASP-39b, having been given”Tips“That there will be carbon dioxide as well.
Exoplanet WWASP-39b was identified in 2011 and is about a quarter the mass of Jupiter despite being 1.3 times its diameter.
George Orwell is a writer and contributor covering politics, society, culture, and current affairs. His work focuses on providing clear analysis and thoughtful commentary on the issues shaping modern Britain and the wider world, helping readers better understand complex topics.
