Diamond Core Planet
Let's begin with 55 Cancri e, a rocky planet discovered in 2004, located a staggering 41 light-years away. The temperatures here are a scorching 2400 degrees
Celsius, enough to melt iron. Under immense atmospheric pressure, carbon on this planet may have compressed to create a core of solid diamond. Imagine a world made of precious gems, a testament to the extreme conditions possible in the universe. This planet's existence challenges our very notion of what a planet can be made of, inspiring wonder and curiosity about the hidden treasures that may exist in the cosmos. Further research and study of such a planet will also unlock many new ways for us to study new worlds.
Planet of Glass
Next, we journey to HD 189733 b, a blue planet located 64 light-years from Earth. This planet, discovered in 2005, might look Earth-like from afar, but its reality is anything but. The brilliant cobalt hue originates from an atmosphere so hot it turns the silica in its air into glass. Picture clouds filled with glass shards and rain composed of the same material. Winds blow at incredible speeds, potentially whipping the glass rain sideways or forming intense tornadoes. It's a planet of extreme atmospheric conditions, revealing the vast differences that can exist between celestial bodies. The study of this planet and others like it continues to advance our knowledge of astrophysics, potentially helping us in understanding how the universe works, and to assess other similar planets.
Planet of Darkness
Then we arrive at TrES-2b, a planet that is so dark that it reflects less light than coal. The reason for this extreme darkness is the planet's temperature, which is estimated to be around 1200 degrees Celsius, and therefore it cannot support clouds. Furthermore, its atmosphere is filled with light-absorbing chemicals, like vaporized potassium and sodium. While Earth reflects approximately 37% of incoming sunlight, and Jupiter reflects about 52%, TrES-2b reflects less than 1%. This planet, discovered in 2006, presents a stark contrast to more reflective planets, earning it the nickname 'planet of eternal night'. This planet also challenges the perception of a planet; the study of such a planet helps us to better understand how light interacts with other celestial bodies.
Consuming Planet
Next, we will explore WASP-12 b, which is currently being consumed by its own star, WASP-12. This planet was discovered in 2008 and orbits so close to its sun that it's being torn apart by the gravitational forces. The extreme pressure has given the planet a comet-like tail and an egg-like shape. The eventual destruction of WASP-12 b illustrates the dynamic and often violent processes that shape the cosmos. This planet is a crucial case study for astronomers. This is also an important study of how a star consumes its own planet, leading to some unique observations.
Cotton Candy Planet
In 2023, astronomers discovered WASP-193 b, a gas giant located 1,181 light-years away, and this planet has a very low density. So low, in fact, it has been nicknamed the 'cotton candy planet'. Despite being about 50% larger than Jupiter, WASP-193 b has only 13% of Jupiter's mass. Its low density is a testament to the variety of cosmic materials that exist in the universe. The discovery has encouraged more advanced techniques in terms of exploring and studying exoplanets. Further research is still ongoing.
The Ancient One
Meet PSR B1620−26 b, also known as Methuselah, one of the oldest planets ever found. Formed around 12 billion years ago, this planet orbits two dead stars. Its age offers a unique glimpse into the early universe and the formation of planets. This planet was discovered in 2003. The study of Methuselah helps scientists piece together the timeline of planetary formation and the evolution of the universe, providing insights into how planets can exist for billions of years.
Ice X Planet
Gliese 436b, situated 32 light-years away, has a surface temperature of around 500 degrees Celsius. Despite the high temperatures, its surface is made of a form of ice known as Ice X. This type of ice remains solid due to intense atmospheric pressure. Ice X is an example of the fascinating physics that can take place within different celestial environments. The discovery occurred in 2004. This helps to better understand the strange forms in which materials can occur, and the effect on the overall composition of the planet.
Stripped Planet
TOI-849 b, discovered in 2020 and located 730 light-years away, has had its atmosphere completely stripped away by the intense radiation of its sun. This leaves behind the naked core of this gas giant. This planet provides a window into the brutal effects of stellar radiation on planetary atmospheres. Its unusual nature offers a chance to understand how stellar winds and radiation can reshape planets over time, helping to refine models of planetary evolution. The core left behind gives us more insights into the composition of a planet.
