James Webb Discovers Unique Exoplanet Unlike Anything in Our Solar System
The James Webb Space Telescope has identified a new type of exoplanet, GJ 1214 b, located 48 light years away in the constellation Ophiuchus, SciTech Daily reported.
This planet is significantly different from those in our Solar System, challenging existing classifications of planetary types.
Researchers, led by Everett Schlawin from the University of Arizona and Kazumasa Ohno from the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, analyzed GJ 1214 b’s atmosphere by using the telescope’s ability to penetrate thick cloud layers. Their findings indicate high concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO₂), similar to Venus’s dense atmosphere, rather than the expected hydrogen-rich or water-dominated characteristics.
The team emphasizes the need for further studies to confirm these results and to deepen understanding of this enigmatic class of exoplanets. The discovery contributes to the growing knowledge of planetary formation and diversity beyond our Solar System.
