The Mighty TOI-1075 b: The Most Massive Super-Earth Discovered
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Chapter 1: Exoplanet Discovery Overview
The cosmos is teeming with mysteries, and recent findings continue to astonish us. As of now, astronomers have identified over 5,220 exoplanets. While this number may seem substantial, it’s merely the tip of the iceberg in the vast universe. Each new discovery offers a glimpse into the wonders of deep space.
In my latest article, I explored how cutting-edge observatories like the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) are enhancing our understanding of these celestial bodies. The JWST recently provided incredible insights into an exoplanet's atmosphere, illustrating the depth of our exploration. Now, let's delve into the latest revelation in exoplanet research.
Section 1.1: The Discovery of TOI-1075 b
NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) has identified a remarkable rocky exoplanet named TOI-1075 b. This ‘super-Earth’ stands out for its colossal size—approximately ten times that of Earth. Despite its geological similarities to our home planet, the surface temperature of around 1,922 degrees Fahrenheit (1,050 degrees Celsius) renders it inhospitable.
The extreme heat of TOI-1075 b can be attributed to its close orbit around its host star. With an orbital period of just 14.5 hours, it possesses an ultra-short orbit, positioning it a mere 200 light-years away from Earth, where it orbits a red-orange star.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Characteristics of TOI-1075 b
Interestingly, TOI-1075 b's location in its star's vicinity is more commonly associated with gas giants known as 'hot Jupiters.' The fascination surrounding super-Earths is growing, as astronomers have discovered increasing evidence of such planets within our Milky Way galaxy, even though none exist in our solar system.
Section 1.2: Observational Techniques
Researchers utilized the transit method to observe this peculiar exoplanet. This technique involves telescopes monitoring distant stars for variations in brightness. When an exoplanet passes in front of its star from our perspective, it causes a temporary dimming of starlight, indicating its presence.
Chapter 2: The Weighty Implications of TOI-1075 b
Astronomers have humorously dubbed TOI-1075 b the ‘Hulk’ of exoplanets, as a person weighing 150 pounds on Earth would weigh around 450 pounds on this massive world. Follow-up observations with ground-based instruments helped confirm the mass and diameter of this fascinating super-Earth.
This first video, titled "16 New Super-Earths Just Discovered," explores the implications of recent super-Earth findings and what they mean for our understanding of exoplanets.
The second video, "This Massive Super Earth Is Almost As Old As the Universe," delves into the age and composition of TOI-1075 b, shedding light on its formation and significance in the universe.
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