Astronomers have discovered a unique exoplanet using the James Webb telescope. Known as 55 Cancri e, this planet is nearly twice as wide as Earth and nine times more massive, making it a member of the super-Earth group of exoplanets. It is located about 41 light-years from our solar system and is hypothesized to be composed primarily of carbon compressed into diamond due to its high density.
This planet orbits very close to its host star, 55 Cancri A, which is only 2.3 km away – a fraction of the distance between Earth and the Sun. As a result, it completes one revolution around its host star in just 17 Earth hours and has a scorching surface temperature of about 2,400 degrees Celsius. The intense radiation from the host star caused 55 Cancri e to lose its original atmosphere, much like other rocky planets in similar close orbits. However, recent research published in Nature revealed that the planet has developed a thick layer of gas surrounding it, indicating the presence of a second atmosphere.
The second atmosphere on this planet may be supported by gas escaping from its rock layer due to its proximity to the host star and intense heat it receives. Initial observations using the Hubble space telescope in 2016 suggested that 55 Cancri e’s atmosphere contained hydrogen and helium. Further studies using the James Webb Space Telescope ruled out the possibility of a hot lava world and indicated that volcanic activity on the planet may have played a role in developing its second atmosphere.
While researchers are still investigating the exact composition of this unique exoplanet’s second atmosphere, models suggest that it may contain significant amounts of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. This discovery showcases how complex and diverse planetary systems beyond our own can be.
In conclusion, discovering an exoplanet with such unique characteristics provides astronomers with valuable insights into how different planets develop and interact with their host stars over time. With further study and exploration, we can continue to uncover new knowledge about these fascinating celestial bodies that exist beyond our solar system.