The discovery of a thick atmosphere around the super Earth known as 55 Cancri e has given scientists new insights into the planet’s potential habitability. This planet, located in a nearby solar system and twice as big as Earth, is one of the few rocky planets outside our solar system with a significant atmosphere.
The atmosphere of 55 Cancri e is unique in its composition, consisting primarily of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, although the exact amounts are uncertain. Despite its size, this super Earth is unlikely to host life due to its boiling temperatures reaching as high as 4,200 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, researchers are intrigued by the possibility of studying other similar rocky planets that may have atmospheres conducive to life. One such exoplanet, which is located 41 light years away and significantly heavier than Earth, presents a unique opportunity for researchers to explore its atmosphere and surface conditions.
By analyzing observations from the Webb Space Telescope before and after the planet passed behind its star, researchers were able to determine the planet’s temperature and study the distribution of heat across its surface. This exploration of the super Earth’s atmosphere may provide insights into the early evolution of planets like Earth and Mars, offering a rare window into the past.
Overall, this discovery offers valuable information that could shape our understanding of planetary evolution and provide clues about the potential habitability of other rocky planets in our galaxy.
