American astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope from NASA Ames Research Center and Arizona State University have discovered methane and water vapor in the atmosphere of the exoplanet WASP-80 b, located 163 light-years from Earth in the Aquila constellation. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Nature.
According to scientists, the most important result of the study was the discovery of methane in such a distant object. In general, the molecules of this organic gas are difficult to detect using current long-range space spectroscopy techniques.
Researchers solved this problem by combining the two main types of observations (transit and eclipse mode). Astronomers watch a celestial body pass in front of its star during a transit and as the planet sets behind the star during an eclipse.
By measuring infrared radiation from WASP-80 b at various stages of its orbit, experts obtained data on how much energy was absorbed by certain molecules in the planet’s atmosphere.
The scientists then analyzed the information using two models; this model showed that WASP-80 b contains methane and water vapor. Although both of these items indicate the presence of life, WASP-80 b, a Jupiter-sized gas giant, is virtually uninhabited. Due to its proximity to the star, the temperature on the planet’s surface is over 550°C.
Astronomers said their discovery will allow them to compare planets in our solar system with worlds far beyond their borders.
Previous scientists discovered Signs of the existence of a subsurface ocean on Pluto.