Researchers have discovered a new exoplanet that is similar to Earth but much larger and colder. This planet, known as LHS 1140 b, was initially thought to be a mini-Neptune. However, further analysis suggests that it is more likely a super-Earth. Located just 40 light-years away in the constellation Cetus, this exoplanet has piqued the interest of astronomers due to its potential habitability.
The key to understanding the composition of LHS 1140 b lies in the data collected by the NIRISS instrument aboard NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. By analyzing the spectral bands of light passing through the planet’s atmosphere, researchers were able to rule out the possibility of it being a mini-Neptune. Instead, the evidence points towards it being a super-Earth with a thick nitrogen or CO2-rich atmosphere.
One of the most intriguing aspects of LHS 1140 b is its density, which is lower than expected for a rocky planet. This suggests that the planet may be a water world, with up to 20% of its mass being composed of water. This has led to speculation that LHS 1140 b could be a hycean planet, characterized by a rocky surface and a hydrogen-dominated atmosphere.
Despite these exciting findings, there is still much to learn about LHS 1140 b. Further observations are needed to confirm its composition and assess its potential habitability. By comparing data from other super-Earths and conducting additional transit observations with Webb’s instruments, researchers hope to unravel the mysteries of this frozen exo-earth.
The discovery of LHS 1140 b opens up new possibilities for understanding the diversity of exoplanets in our galaxy. With continued advancements in technology and observational techniques, we are getting closer to answering the age-old question of whether we are alone in the universe. As we await further updates on LHS 1140 b, the scientific community remains hopeful that this frozen super-Earth could hold the key to unlocking the secrets of distant worlds.
