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We The Curious8 minutes read

The Milky Way Galaxy contains a vast number of stars and planets, with scientists studying various exoplanets like Hot Jupiters, Super Earths, and 55 Cancri e to understand their atmospheres, weather patterns, and harsh conditions. Exo-nephologists explore clouds and extreme weather phenomena on exoplanets like Osiris, where molten iron and silicate rain make these planets uninhabitable.

Insights

  • The Milky Way Galaxy hosts an immense number of stars, each potentially accompanied by planets, expanding the realm of exoplanet exploration beyond our solar system.
  • Exoplanetary studies reveal extreme conditions on planets like Osiris and 55 Cancri e, with molten iron rain, intense thunderstorms, and harsh environments, showcasing the diverse and often hostile nature of exoplanetary atmospheres.

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Recent questions

  • What is the composition of Hot Jupiters?

    Hot Jupiters are gas giants that orbit very close to their stars, leading to extreme temperatures and atmospheric evaporation. This proximity results in distinct day/night temperature contrasts and unique weather patterns on these planets.

  • How do exo-nephologists study exoplanets?

    Exo-nephologists study clouds on exoplanets like Osiris by observing extreme wind speeds and high temperatures that lead to molten iron and silicate rain. These conditions make these planets inhospitable for life as we know it.

  • What are Super Earths known for?

    Super Earths are larger than Earth and have thick atmospheres along with huge oceans. These planets exhibit distorted surfaces due to massive waves caused by tidal effects and tectonic activity, making them unique in the realm of exoplanets.

  • What is 55 Cancri e known for?

    55 Cancri e is a scorching planet with a molten lava surface that experiences intense thunderstorms and atmospheric disturbances. This harsh environment has been likened to Dante's Inferno due to its extreme conditions.

  • How do planets form in the Milky Way Galaxy?

    Planets in the Milky Way Galaxy form from debris disks that evolve into planetesimals, eventually growing into gas giants like Jupiter. This process of planet formation is a fascinating area of study for scientists, offering insights into the diversity of planetary systems beyond our solar system.

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Summary

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"Exploring Exoplanets: From Hot Jupiters to Super Earths"

  • The Milky Way Galaxy contains a hundred billion stars, each with its own planets, leading to the exploration of exoplanets beyond our solar system.
  • Scientists from the University of Exeter share insights on planet formation, with debris disks evolving into planetesimals that grow into gas giants like Jupiter.
  • Hot Jupiters are gas giants orbiting very close to their stars, experiencing extreme temperatures and atmospheric evaporation, leading to distinct day/night temperature contrasts and weather patterns.
  • Exo-nephologists study clouds on exoplanets like Osiris, where extreme wind speeds and high temperatures result in molten iron and silicate rain, making these planets inhospitable.
  • Super Earths, larger than Earth with thick atmospheres and huge oceans, exhibit distorted surfaces due to massive waves caused by tidal effects and tectonic activity.
  • 55 Cancri e, a scorching planet with a molten lava surface, experiences intense thunderstorms and atmospheric disturbances, making it a harsh environment akin to Dante's Inferno.
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