James Webb Telescope unveils infrared mystery on TRAPPIST-1 b
NASA has reported an exceptional event on TRAPPIST-1 b, which structurally resembles Earth. The James Webb Space Telescope has discovered infrared light there. It turns out that not all the information related to the discovery is solely optimistic.
3 Apr 2024 | updated: 3 April 2024 10:25
The TRAPPIST-1 planetary system - discovered by NASA - is one of the most interesting cosmic discoveries of recent years. In the system located about 40 light-years away, a star around which at least seven rocky planets orbit has been found. It is noteworthy that in terms of their structure, they resemble Earth, giving scientists reasons to continue searching for life there.
It's no wonder NASA scientists decided to investigate the discovered system further. This time, the focus was on one of the planets, tentatively named TRAPPIST-1 b. Research using the James Webb Space Telescope showed that the planet emits light.
NASA's ground-breaking research results. However, hope is slim
The emitted light is indeed infrared, but the observation's results are groundbreaking nonetheless. This is the first such phenomenon detected on a planet outside the Solar System.
Unfortunately, NASA's research indicates that TRAPPIST-1 b is an object where looking for any signs of advanced life is futile. Based on calculations, including infrared light emission, the temperature on the illuminated part of the planet is supposed to be about 230 degrees Celsius.
So, it's too high for the object to have its atmosphere. However, scientists believe that the data obtained during the observation will allow continuing work towards finding a "second Earth". In the opinion of astrophysicist Thomas Greene, there are even 10 times more stars of the TRAPPIST-1 type than those resembling the Sun. This significantly increases the possibility of the formation of rocky exoplanets the size of Earth, where living conditions may be similar to our planet.
