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Showing posts with the label Exoplanet Discoveries

K2-18b : A Super-Earth with Potential for Life

K2-18b, a captivating super-Earth exoplanet, has captured the imagination of astronomers and astrobiologists alike. Discovered in 2015, this intriguing world offers a glimpse into the possibility of life beyond our solar system. Let's delve into what makes K2-18b so interesting. Super Earth Characteristics K2-18b resides roughly 120 light-years away in the constellation Leo. Unlike our Earth orbiting a yellow sun, K2-18b circles a red dwarf star, cooler and fainter than our sun. Despite its cooler host, K2-18b sits within the habitable zone, the region where liquid water could potentially exist on a planet's surface. K2-18b is a true super-Earth, boasting a size 2.2 times Earth's radius and a mass a whopping 8.6 times greater. This extra mass suggests a denser composition, potentially rich in elements heavier than those found on Earth. Day & Night on k2-18b K2-18b's day and night cycle is quite different from what we experience on Earth. Here's the breakdown: Ti...

Discovery of exoplanet 55 Cancri E

Discovery of exoplanet 55 Cancri E Introduction: Embark on an interstellar adventure as we unravel the mysteries surrounding the enigmatic exoplanet 55 Cancri e. This celestial body, situated within the Cancer constellation, has captivated astronomers with its fiery nature and peculiar characteristics. Join us as we delve into the discovery, historical context, intricate details, and the cosmic address of 55 Cancri e, a celestial furnace ablaze with cosmic wonder. Part 1: Celestial Detectives at Work - The Discovery of 55 Cancri E The celestial narrative of 55 Cancri e commences with the astute work of astronomers employing cutting-edge technologies. In the early 21st century, the radial velocity method played a crucial role in detecting subtle oscillations in the star 55 Cancri A. These minute variations hinted at the presence of an unseen companion, ultimately revealing the existence of the scorching exoplanet 55 Cancri e. Part 2: Echoes of Time - The Historical Evolution of 55 Cancr...