"Super-Earth" exoplanet has hazy or steamy atmosphere
Posted: Thu, Dec 2, 2010, 6:38 AM ET (1138 GMT)
Astronomers performing the first study of the composition of the atmosphere of a "super-Earth" exoplanet believe that world's atmosphere is either hazy or mostly compromised of steam. Researchers analyzed the atmosphere of the planet GJ 1214b, about 6.5 times the mass of the Earth, by measuring light from its star as the planet transited across it and determining what wavelengths were absorbed by the atmosphere. The results, scientists, said, were consistent with two possibilities: the planet has an atmosphere of hydrogen with high clouds or haze, or one that consists of water in the form of steam. Followup observations at infrared wavelengths are required to differentiate between the two.
Astronomers performing the first study of the composition of the atmosphere of a "super-Earth" exoplanet believe that world's atmosphere is either hazy or mostly compromised of steam. Researchers analyzed the atmosphere of the planet GJ 1214b, about 6.5 times the mass of the Earth, by measuring light from its star as the planet transited across it and determining what wavelengths were absorbed by the atmosphere. The results, scientists, said, were consistent with two possibilities: the planet has an atmosphere of hydrogen with high clouds or haze, or one that consists of water in the form of steam. Followup observations at infrared wavelengths are required to differentiate between the two.
Related Links:
| <<previous article | next article>> |
|
news in brief
|
|
|
|
news links
|
|
Wednesday, February 18
Space Force needs 10,000 more Guardians, officials tell Senate
Huntsville Times — 5:40 am ET (1040 GMT) SpaceX, Not Tesla, Will Make Musk A Trillionaire
Forbes.com — 5:37 am ET (1037 GMT) Space Force needs to double in size, top enlisted leader says
FederalNewsRadio.com — 5:37 am ET (1037 GMT) GMV and the Spanish Air and Space Force Sign Agreement to Strengthen National Space Surveillance Capabilities
Space and Defense — 5:36 am ET (1036 GMT) Virgin Galactic Announces Date of Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Financial Results and Conference Call
Virgin Galactic — 5:35 am ET (1035 GMT) |
