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Health & Science2h 7m ago
JWST observed dramatic differences between the dawn and dusk regions of the exoplanet WASP-121 b, finding that fierce winds carry heat from the dayside to the evening side, making it hotter and more expanded.
exoplanet WASP-121 b
Who
Cyril Gapp from MPIA and Tom Evans-Soma from the University of Newcastle, Australia, using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)
What
JWST observed dramatic differences between the dawn and dusk regions of the exoplanet WASP-121 b, finding that fierce winds carry heat from the dayside to the evening side, making it hotter and more expanded.
When
Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:49:05 GMT · 2h 7m ago
Where
exoplanet WASP-121 b ·
Why
The observations revealed an uneven pattern of starlight absorption in WASP-121 b's atmosphere, which researchers attribute to differences in temperature and chemistry between the morning and evening sides.
The Frontline Impact
How this affects you
The findings provide a more detailed understanding of exoplanet atmospheric dynamics, showing how extreme temperatures can break apart water molecules and suggesting the presence of mineral clouds shaping the cooler side's atmosphere, advancing exoplanetary science.
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1 event in this threadNo related history yet - this is the origin event.
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