Unraveling the Mysteries of WASP-121b
Scientists have recently made groundbreaking discoveries about the ultra-hot exoplanet WASP-121b. This exoplanet’s chemical composition suggests it formed in a cooler region of its natal disc, akin to where gas and ice giants exist within our Solar System. This finding challenges previous assumptions about hot exoplanets, shedding light on their formation processes.
Furthermore, researchers detected methane in the atmosphere of WASP-121b, particularly on its nightside. This unexpected discovery indicates robust vertical atmospheric circulation despite the planet’s extreme temperatures. The first observation of silicon monoxide in a planetary atmosphere also marks a significant milestone, providing insights into the rocky material accumulated by the planet. These findings enhance our understanding of planetary atmospheres and their complex dynamics.
