It’s extremely hot in New York this week, with temperatures soaring into the mid-90s. However, at the South Pole, the temperature is a bone-chilling -89 degrees Fahrenheit. The drastic difference in temperature on Earth is nothing compared to the extreme weather phenomenon of an exoplanet called WASP-39b, located 700 light-years away from us.
WASP-39b is 1.3 times larger than Jupiter and has a unique feature where one side of the planet is always facing its star, while the other side is in perpetual darkness. Surprisingly, the dark side of the planet is a scorching 300 degrees hotter than the side facing the star. This incredible temperature difference is caused by powerful winds that transport heat from the star-facing side to the dark side, creating a permanent evening on one side and a relatively cooler morning on the other side.
Recent data collected by the Webb Space Telescope has provided new insights into the atmosphere of WASP-39b. Scientists have detected the presence of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, water vapor, and sodium in the planet’s atmosphere. The researchers at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STSI) are now planning to study other tidally locked exoplanets to understand if similar weather patterns exist on other planets.
The Webb Space Telescope’s near-infrared spectrograph played a crucial role in gathering information about WASP-39b’s atmosphere. By analyzing the light passing through the planet’s atmosphere as it moved in front of the star, scientists were able to compare it with the unimpeded light emitted by the star. This detailed analysis has provided valuable insights into the unique weather patterns of this distant exoplanet.
While the presence of clouds on the morning side of WASP-39b has raised questions about their impact on temperature, scientists are hopeful that further research will help them understand this complex weather system. The STSI researchers, who published their findings in the journal Nature, are eager to explore more exoplanets to unravel the mysteries of their atmospheres and weather conditions.
The extreme weather phenomenon of WASP-39b serves as a reminder of the diverse and fascinating worlds that exist beyond our solar system. Studying these distant planets not only expands our knowledge of the universe but also sheds light on the complex interactions that shape planetary climates. As technology advances and telescopes like the Webb Space Telescope continue to provide valuable data, the possibilities for discovering new exoplanets and unraveling their secrets are endless.
