Astronomers have detected winds of approximately 20,500 miles per hour on exoplanet WASP-127b, making it the fastest jet stream in our solar system. Located about 520 light-years from Earth, WASP-127b orbits its star every four days, facing intense radiation that scours its atmosphere.
The planet, a “hot Jupiter,” has no rocky surface and is composed mainly of hydrogen and helium. Its atmosphere is incredibly hot, reaching temperatures of up to 2,060 degrees Fahrenheit. Researchers used the CRIRES+ instrument on the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope to study atmospheric dynamics, revealing complex molecules like carbon monoxide.
The supersonic jet-stream winds are found at the planet’s equator and are the fastest in any known planetary system. Scientists believe that intense stellar radiation is the primary driver of these winds, but other factors also play a role in shaping wind patterns. This discovery marks an important step forward in understanding exoplanet atmospheres, allowing researchers to explore three-dimensional aspects such as winds, temperature variations, and chemical processes.
The study’s lead author, Lisa Nortmann, noted that the velocity of these winds is surprisingly high, while co-author David Cont emphasized the importance of observing changes in the host star’s brightness to track wind speeds. With ongoing improvements in instrumentation and observational techniques, researchers are gaining a deeper understanding of exoplanet atmospheres and uncovering new surprises in this rapidly evolving field.
Source: https://www.ksl.com/article/51234160/astronomers-detect-ferocious-jet-stream-winds-on-alien-planet