Diamond Core Planet
Approximately 41 light-years away, the rocky planet 55 Cancri e presents an astonishing reality. The temperatures are extreme, reaching about 2400 degrees
Celsius, which is hot enough to melt iron. This intense heat and atmospheric pressure likely transform some of the planet's carbon into a diamond core. The planet's conditions showcase an extreme environment, showcasing the diverse ways matter can exist in the universe, influenced by extreme conditions.
Planet of Glass Rain
HD 189733 b, a blue planet that resides 64 light-years away, possesses an Earth-like appearance, but the similarities end there. Its cobalt hue comes from an atmosphere where the silica present has turned into glass. The atmospheric conditions lead to glass rain falling from clouds filled with glass shards. Howling winds contribute by sending the rain sideways or creating tornadoes, a stark contrast to the familiar weather patterns on Earth and an example of the unusual phenomena that can occur on other worlds.
The Eternal Night
TrES-2b is a planet that absorbs light, appearing darker than coal. The temperature of about 1200 degrees Celsius and an atmosphere filled with light-absorbing chemicals such as vaporized potassium and sodium prevent the formation of clouds. While Earth reflects about 37% of sunlight and Jupiter reflects around 52%, TrES-2b reflects less than 1%. The planet, discovered in 2006, has been fittingly nicknamed the 'planet of eternal night', highlighting its exceptional light-absorbing qualities.
Being Consumed by Star
WASP-12 b, discovered in 2008, faces a dramatic fate. It orbits so closely to its star, WASP-12, that it is being gradually torn apart. The gravitational forces are immense, giving the planet a comet-like tail and an egg-like shape. This situation reveals how intense gravitational forces can lead to the deformation and eventual destruction of a planet, offering a rare opportunity to observe stellar-planetary interaction.
Cotton Candy Planet
WASP-193 b, discovered in 2023 and located 1,181 light-years away, presents a low density, earning it the nickname 'cotton-candy planet.' The planet's size is about 50% larger than Jupiter, yet it possesses only 13% of Jupiter's mass. This extremely low density challenges our understanding of planet formation and composition, suggesting the presence of unique atmospheric characteristics. This characteristic makes it stand out as an exceptional case among gas giants.
The Ancient Giant
PSR B1620−26 b, often called 'Methuselah,' is one of the oldest planets discovered. It was formed approximately 12 billion years ago and orbits two burnt-out stars. This ancient planet is a relic from the early universe, providing valuable insight into the formation and evolution of planetary systems. Its survival and age showcase the resilience of certain celestial bodies over an extended timeframe.
Orb of Hot Ice
Gliese 436b, located 32 light-years away, has surface temperatures of approximately 500 degrees Celsius. Despite the heat, its surface is made of a form of ice, Ice X, which remains solid due to extreme atmospheric pressure. This concept proves that ice can exist under immense pressure, showcasing the various physical states of matter, and the fact that temperature is not the sole factor determining a substance's state. This planet helps us realize the effects of different environmental variables.
Stripped Bare Planet
TOI-849 b, situated 730 light-years away, has an atmosphere blasted away by its sun's radiation, leaving only the core of a gas giant. This planet provides evidence of how stellar radiation can dramatically alter a planet's appearance and composition. This condition showcases extreme environments that cause the planet to have an unusual structure. This planet exemplifies the destructive impact that stars can have on their orbiting bodies.
