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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.
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