admin The James Webb Space Telescope has captured infant planets in two distinct development stages. These planets orbit a young, sun-like star named YSES-1, located in the Milky Way galaxy. This planetary system lies approximately 310 light-years away in the constellation Musca.
Interestingly, both planets are gas giants and far more massive than Jupiter. Yet, they show vastly different features and stages of formation. This remarkable discovery sheds light on the complexities of planetary system development.
The star YSES-1 is only 16 million years old. In contrast, our sun is around 4.5 billion years old. These observations highlight how young planetary systems can differ, even within similar conditions.
The innermost planet has a mass nearly 14 times that of Jupiter. It orbits at 160 times the Earth-sun distance. A dusty disk surrounds the planet, suggesting it is still forming. Scientists also found signs of water and carbon monoxide in its atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the outer planet is about six times more massive than Jupiter. It orbits at 320 times the Earth-sun distance. Its atmosphere contains silicate clouds, along with methane, carbon dioxide, water, and carbon monoxide.
Therefore, the two planets display sharply contrasting features despite being in the same system. One still carries a disk of dust, while the other has an evolved cloudy atmosphere. This duality raises fresh questions about how gas giants form in space.
Experts believe both planets should form around the same time. However, the observed differences suggest unknown variables influence their development. Additionally, their massive distance from the host star challenges current planet formation theories.
Webb’s powerful infrared capabilities have transformed how scientists view exoplanet atmospheres. Its detailed images offer a deeper understanding of atmospheric chemistry and structure.
Though researchers continue to investigate, one mystery remains unsolved. Why does one planet retain dust, and the other not? Moreover, if they formed in the same protoplanetary disk, their differing states raise important questions.
This discovery adds to Webb’s growing legacy in revealing cosmic secrets. Since 2022, Webb has redefined our view of the universe and exoplanet development. It continues to reshape planetary formation theories and inspire new space exploration questions every day.
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