JWST provides first hints of evidence of the existence of an ocean exoplanet
CNRS and University of Montréal scientists suggest exoplanet LHS 1140b may be an ocean world with potential for life. Observations indicate significant water presence, absence of hydrogen and helium envelope. Future studies will focus on atmosphere and habitability.
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A team of CNRS planetary scientists, in collaboration with astronomers from the University of Montréal, has found evidence suggesting that the exoplanet LHS 1140b could be an ocean world. Observations from various telescopes and instruments revealed that the planet likely has a significant amount of water, possibly in liquid form, making it a promising candidate for hosting life. The James Webb Space Telescope's recent observations further supported this hypothesis by showing that the planet no longer has an envelope of hydrogen and helium, indicating the presence of water in substantial quantities. This discovery marks a significant step in the search for habitable exoplanets and will be detailed in an upcoming publication in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. Future observations aim to characterize the planet's atmosphere and explore its potential as a habitable world. LHS 1140b, located 48 light-years away in the constellation Cetus, stands out as one of the most promising exoplanets in the habitable zone discovered so far.
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1 commentsBut if we had multiple JWST like telescopes and one dedicated towards observing G and K type stars we could get a better understanding.
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