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An artistis concept of an unusual, methane-free world partially eclipsed by its star
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An artistis concept of an unusual, methane-free world partially eclipsed by its star
An artistis concept of an unusual, methane-free world partially eclipsed by its star. The Spitzer Space Telescope has found evidence that a hot, Neptune-sized exoplanet orbiting a star beyond our sun lacks methane, an ingredient common to many planets in our own solar system.
Models of planetary atmospheres indicate that any world with the common mix of hydrogen, carbon and oxygen, and a temperature up to 1, 000 Kelvin (1, 340 degrees Fahrenheit) should have a large amount of methane and a small amount of carbon monoxide. The planet illustrated here, called GJ 436b is about 800 Kelvin (or 980 degrees Fahrenheit). and it was expected to have methane but Spitzers observations shows it does not
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases an artist's concept of a truly extraordinary world, partially eclipsed by its radiant star. What makes this exoplanet even more intriguing is the absence of methane, a common ingredient found in many planets within our own solar system. The Spitzer Space Telescope has made a groundbreaking discovery, revealing that this hot Neptune-sized planet, known as GJ 436b, defies expectations by lacking methane despite having the necessary elements for its formation. According to models of planetary atmospheres, any world with hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen at temperatures up to 1,000 Kelvin should possess significant amounts of methane alongside trace quantities of carbon monoxide. However, GJ 436b challenges these predictions with its temperature reaching around 800 Kelvin (or approximately 980 degrees Fahrenheit), yet exhibiting no signs of methane. The digitally generated image portrays the planet's close-up view against the backdrop of bright stars in vibrant colors. Its atmosphere emits a mesmerizing glow while being partially obscured during an eclipse event. This remarkable illustration opens up new avenues for scientific exploration into planetary science and astrophysics. As we delve deeper into understanding exobiology and astrobiology beyond our own celestial neighborhood, GJ 436b serves as a reminder that there are countless wonders waiting to be unveiled in the vast universe surrounding us.
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