• Uncategorised

Two rocky super-Earths discovered just 33 light-years away

Researchers using NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) have discovered two rocky exoplanets in a system in our cosmic backyard, located just 33 light-years from Earth. These are some of the closest rocky planets discovered to date, orbiting around a small, cool star called HD 260655. The two planets are of a type called a super-Earth, at 1.2 and 1.5 times the size of our planet, but they aren’t habitable as they orbit close to their star and have high surface temperatures.

According to NASA the nearest planet to the star, called HD 260655 b, has a surface temperature estimated at 816 degrees Fahrenheit (435 Celsius), while its companion HD 260655 c is estimated to have a temperature of 543 Fahrenheit (284 Celsius).

Illustration of two newly discovered, rocky “super-Earths” that could be ideal for follow-up atmospheric observations. NASA/JPL-Caltech

Estimating the surface temperature of exoplanets is tricky though because it depends on whether the planets have an atmosphere. In our solar system, for example, Venus is hotter on its surface than Mercury even though it is farther from the sun because its thick atmosphere traps the heat. So to understand more about exoplanets, we need to measure their atmospheres — something which has historically been very difficult but will be possible with new tools like the James Webb Space Telescope, set to begin science operations this summer.

And these two planets are ideal candidates for studying exoplanet atmospheres, because they are relatively close to us and because the star around which they orbit is bright despite its small size. “Both planets in this system are each considered among the best targets for atmospheric study because of the brightness of their star,” explained one of the researchers, Michelle Kunimoto of MIT, in a statement. “Is there a volatile-rich atmosphere around these planets? And are there signs of water or carbon-based species?

These planets are fantastic test beds for those explorations.”

Two rocky super-Earths discovered just 33 light-years awayMIT astronomers have discovered a new multiplanet system that lies just 10 parsecs, or about 33 light-years, from Earth, making it one of the closest known multiplanet systems to our own. The star at the heart of the system likely hosts at least two terrestrial, Earth-sized planets. MIT News, with TESS Satellite figure courtesy of NASA

James Webb will be able to investigate exoplanet atmospheres by looking at the light which shines from a star and passes through a planet’s atmosphere. By splitting this light into a spectrum, researchers can see which wavelengths have been absorbed by particular molecules, and that allows them to work out what the atmosphere is composed of.

There’s no indication yet on whether these two newly discovered planets have atmospheres or not, but they are exciting targets for further investigation.

The research was presented at the meeting of the American Astronomical Society on June 15 and will be published in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics.

Editors’ Recommendations

Tags:

beer-hunter listed on couponmatrix.ukbunches-co-uk listed on couponmatrix.ukdiscount-supplements listed on couponmatrix.ukhelly-hansen listed on couponmatrix.ukla-redoute listed on couponmatrix.ukwilliam-hill listed on couponmatrix.uk
beer-hunter listed on couponmatrix.ukWhen your curiosity beckons for brews that stimulate and satisfy, turn to Beer Hunter. As experts in supplying new and interesting formulas from beer lovers across continents, you can explore fresh flavours for less using a Beer Hunter discount code. Delivering delicious fruit beers alongside potent bitters, sharp pilsners and even gin advent calendars, there’s no avenue of taste that can’t be gratified after a binge at Beer Hunter.
bunches-co-uk listed on couponmatrix.ukWhether you want to romantically surprise a loved one, celebrate an anniversary or pay thanks to a friend, a Bunches discount code will help you sniff out some fragrant bargains. Send them by post with a personal message, flower food and chocolates to recipients across the UK, with first-class and next-day delivery both available. Send off hand-tied bouquets of spring charms, oriental blossoms, mont blancs and more, or pay tribute to the power of love with a Valentine’s hamper featuring roses or tulips. Offer your deepest sympathy with a selection of gentle lilacs, and appreciate mum’s hard work with a Mother’s Day bouquet of carnations.
discount-supplements listed on couponmatrix.ukSometimes a little power boost is all that's needed to turn a good workout into a great one. Find the right fuel with a Discount Supplements discount code, providing savings on a massive range of shakes, bars and more. Products such as bars of whey protein and creatine powder for that energy kick span the full gamut of sports supplements.
helly-hansen listed on couponmatrix.ukFounded in Norway in 1877, Helly Hansen is the expert when it comes to clothing to protect you from the elements. Experience the Great Outdoors in comfort using a Helly Hansen discount code to save on everything from rain jackets and sailing pants to base layers and beachwear. If you’re looking for professional-grade clothing and equipment for skiing, hiking and sailing, Helly Hansen’s unique heritage and innovation put it in first place every time.
la-redoute listed on couponmatrix.ukLa Redoute has been bringing high quality French couture to the public since 1837 and have now been selling goods in Britain for over 20 years. Working with top designers, La Redoute is committed to collaborations with the great and the good of the fashion world and has sold collections from prestigious names such as Yves Saint-Laurent, Stella McCartney, Christian Lacroix and Jean-Paul Gaultier to name a few. make the most of a La Redoute discount code to save on something special for tyour wardrobe. One of the great things about La Redoute is that they don't just offer their own range of clothing but also ranges from major worldwide brands too including Nike, Levis, Converse and Adidas.
william-hill listed on couponmatrix.ukThere’s nothing quite like the fun and the thrill of a flutter. With more than 85 years in the game, William Hill has made a name for itself as one of the UK’s leading bookmakers, so grab yourself a William Hill promo code and save a pretty penny on the cost of your bet. Whether on the horses or the dogs, placing a little bet with William Hill is hardly a gamble; you’re practically guaranteed a good time!