Rare 'Glory Effect' Potentially Observed on Distant Exoplanet WASP-76b
Astronomers detect possible signs of a rainbow-like phenomenon on the ultra-hot gas giant, requiring further study for confirmation.
- For the first time, potential signs of a rare 'glory effect' have been observed on the exoplanet WASP-76b, located 637 light-years away.
- The glory effect, a rainbow-like arrangement of concentric rings, requires very specific conditions, including perfectly spherical atmospheric particles.
- WASP-76b, known for its scorching temperatures and iron rain, offers a unique environment for this phenomenon.
- Researchers caution that further observations are needed to confirm the presence of the glory effect.
- The discovery could provide insights into the atmospheric composition and conditions of WASP-76b and other exoplanets.