Discovery of Enaiposha: A Unique Super-Venus

Astronomers have identified a new exoplanet named Enaiposha, or GJ 1214 b, located 47 light-years from Earth, Earth.com reported. Initially classified as a mini-Neptune, recent observations reveal it possesses characteristics of a “super-Venus.” Utilizing data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), researchers discovered that Enaiposha has a thick atmosphere composed of hydrogen, helium, water, methane, and carbon dioxide.

The planet’s atmosphere is shrouded in haze and aerosols, complicating spectral analysis and making it challenging to determine its exact composition. Notably, faint signals indicate the presence of carbon dioxide in concentrations similar to those found on Venus. This discovery suggests Enaiposha may represent a new subtype of exoplanet, defying traditional classifications.

Future studies aim to explore the atmospheric dynamics and potential evolution of Enaiposha, offering insights into how similar planets may develop. These findings, published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, could enhance our understanding of exoplanets and their atmospheres.