Observations Made on a Neptune-like Planet
Researchers have identified a planet that may have a surface covered by an ocean, according to a report by The Guardian. The planet, named “TOI-270 d,” located about 73 light years away, shows evidence of water vapor and chemical signatures of carbon dioxide and methane. A team from the University of Cambridge made these observations using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope.
Debate Over Habitability
The planet’s characteristics indicate the presence of a deep-water ocean, although the high temperatures pose uncertainties about its habitability. Nikku Madhusudhan, a professor of astrophysics at the University of Cambridge leading the research, mentioned that the ocean could be extremely hot, potentially upwards of 100 degrees Celsius. The planet’s tidal locking results in one side in constant darkness and the other facing the star, creating extreme temperature variations.
Conflicting Views
However, a Canadian research group has raised doubts about the habitability of TOI-270 d. They argue that the planet’s temperatures could reach as high as 4,000 degrees Celsius, making it unsuitable for liquid water. Despite detecting similar chemical components in the atmosphere, the Canadian researchers maintain skepticism about the planet’s potential to support life.
Role of NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope
The James Webb Space Telescope has been instrumental in advancing the exploration of habitable planets beyond Earth. By analyzing the atmospheres of exoplanets, scientists aim to identify key indicators such as the existence of liquid water, crucial for supporting life. This telescope plays a crucial role in expanding our understanding of potentially habitable worlds in distant galaxies.