Neptune-Sized Exoplanet Upsets Assumptions
Thursday, April 22, 2010 - 12:31
in Astronomy & Space
The exoplanet GJ 436b has left scientists confused after defying their assumptions about the composition of its atmosphere. Neptune-sized planets as hot as 800 Kelvin -- about 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit -- should contain high levels of methane and very little carbon monoxide. Instead, the researchers found 7,000 times less methane than expected and plenty of carbon monoxide. Using NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope, researchers measured the dimming of light as GJ 436b passed behind its star and re-emerged. The difference in the two light levels -- measured six times at different infrared wavelengths -- represents the light emitted by the planet itself. read more