Astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) that a scorching hot lava planet, known as 55 Cancri e or Janssen, has developed a second atmosphere after its star destroyed its first one.
This diamond-like planet, which is about 8.8 times heavier than Earth and orbits its star at an incredibly close distance, is located 41 light years away from our planet. The 55 Cancri e is one of the few rocky exoplanets outside our solar system with a significant atmosphere comprised of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.
Renyu Hu, a researcher at the California Institute of Technology, stated, “We measured the thermal emissions from this rocky planet, and the measurement indicates that the planet has a substantial atmosphere. This atmosphere is probably supported by outgassing from the rocky interior of 55 Cancri e, and we think this is the first measurement of a secondary atmosphere on a rocky exoplanet. It is very exciting.”
The planet’s surface temperature can reach a scorching 3,140 degrees Fahrenheit, making it impossible for any form of life to exist. The extreme heat on the planet’s surface, close proximity to its star, and molten conditions contribute to the outgassing process that supports its secondary atmosphere.
This discovery sheds light on the fascinating and complex nature of exoplanets outside our solar system, opening up new possibilities for further research and exploration in the field of astronomy.
