Webb Telescope Unveils Atmospheric Differences on Distant Exoplanet
New findings highlight temperature and cloud cover variations between the perpetual morning and evening sides of WASP-39b.
- WASP-39b, a tidally locked exoplanet, shows significant temperature differences between its morning and evening sides.
- The James Webb Space Telescope's sensitivity enabled the detection of these variations, with the evening side being hotter by 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Researchers used transmission spectra to analyze the exoplanet's atmosphere, revealing distinct cloud cover patterns.
- High-speed winds circulate around the planet, contributing to the temperature and atmospheric differences.
- The study marks a significant advancement in understanding atmospheric dynamics on exoplanets and sets the stage for future research.