Astronomers using the James Webb space telescope have discovered a young star system in the constellation of the fly, where two gas giants are still forming and circling their sun-like star, YSES-1. The star is 1 million years old compared to our 4.6 billion-year-old sun.
The team was surprised to find high-altitude clouds on both planets, which are unlike those on Earth, composed of magnesium silicate dust grains and possibly iron. These clouds could bring heavy rainfall when they break.
The discovery is significant because the young star system provides a unique opportunity to study planet formation theories. The two gas giants, YSES-1b and YSES-1c, have masses similar to Jupiter’s but are still in the early stages of formation.
Researchers are puzzled by the presence of a disc of material around YSES-1b, which is about 14 times the mass of Jupiter, and why it has not settled after 16 million years. The JWST has provided valuable data to refine models and improve understanding of planet formation.
The discovery was made possible by the $10 billion JWST, which has transformed astronomy since its launch in December 2021. This mission has revealed new worlds, witnessed black holes colliding, and even spotted hints of life beyond Earth.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2025/jun/10/astronomers-space-telescope-clouds-planet