Among the nearly 80 potential exoplanets is one that definitely warrants further study. About 114 light years away, the star HD 73344 burns much brighter than our sun. An exoplanet orbiting that star has an estimated surface temperature of 1,200 to 1,300 degrees Celsius (around 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit). Its orbital period is a mere 15 days, and it’s about 2.5 times larger than Earth with 10 times the mass.
Scientists believe the planet is a small gas giant, and we might learn much more about it soon. Since the star is relatively close and both the star and planet are bright, it should be possible to gather substantial light from them. We could learn about the atmosphere and other features of the planet. First, we need to confirm it exists. So far, other teams have confirmed four planets in the new data are real, and more will probably follow soon.
Among the nearly 80 potential exoplanets is one that definitely warrants further study. About 114 light years away, the star HD 73344 burns much brighter than our sun. An exoplanet orbiting that star has an estimated surface temperature of 1,200 to 1,300 degrees Celsius (around 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit). Its orbital period is a mere 15 days, and it’s about 2.5 times larger than Earth with 10 times the mass.
Scientists believe the planet is a small gas giant, and we might learn much more about it soon. Since the star is relatively close and both the star and planet are bright, it should be possible to gather substantial light from them. We could learn about the atmosphere and other features of the planet. First, we need to confirm it exists. So far, other teams have confirmed four planets in the new data are real, and more will probably follow soon.
By Ryan Whitwam
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