James Webb Discovery - Blog Posts

Webb Telescope discovers hints of water vapor in atmosphere of exoplanet GJ 486 b

In a study released on May 01, 2023, Webb Telescope discovers hints of water vapor in the atmosphere of exoplanet GJ 486 b. Read Full article here

The illustration portrays GJ 486 b, a rocky exoplanet located in the Virgo constellation, which revolves around a red dwarf star situated 26 light-years away. Scientists observed the planet's transit in front of the star to search for indications of an atmosphere and discovered possible traces of water vapor. Nevertheless, they advise that although this could indicate the presence of a planetary atmosphere, the water may be present in the cool starspots on the star itself rather than emanating from the planet. Credits: NASA, ESA, CSA, Joseph Olmsted (STScI)