Discovery of Atmosphere on Super Earth 55 Cancri e Sheds Light on Planet Evolution and Habitability

A groundbreaking discovery made by researchers has provided strong evidence that a super Earth called 55 Cancri e, located in a nearby solar system, has an atmosphere. This planet is twice the size of Earth and one of the few rocky planets outside our solar system with a significant atmosphere, consisting of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. The exact composition of these gases remains unknown, unlike Earth’s atmosphere which is made up of nitrogen, oxygen, argon, and other gases.

The extreme temperatures on 55 Cancri e, reaching up to 4,200 degrees Fahrenheit, make it unlikely to support life. However, scientists believe that this finding indicates the potential existence of other rocky planets with thick atmospheres that may be more conducive to life. This exoplanet is located 41 light years away and is eight times heavier than Earth, orbiting its star Copernicus closely with permanent day and night sides.

Researchers used the Webb Space Telescope to analyze the planet’s atmosphere and temperature distribution. By studying the data gathered from the telescope, they were able to determine that the planet’s heat was distributed more evenly across its surface – a characteristic of atmospheres. The presence of gases from its magma oceans may play a crucial role in maintaining its atmosphere. Scientists believe that exploring this super Earth could provide insights into the early phases of planet evolution and offer clues about how Earth and Mars may have evolved with magma oceans that have since cooled. This research is facilitated by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and offers a rare opportunity to learn about the planet’s development.