NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has made history by capturing its first direct image of an exoplanet, TWA 7 b. Located 110 light years from Earth, this planet is about the size of Saturn and orbits its star at a vast distance. The telescope’s advanced technology allowed it to directly capture images of the planet, which appears as a bright source with a narrow ring of debris.
For decades, scientists have relied on indirect methods like observing shadows to detect exoplanets. However, TWA 7 b is an exception due to its size and location near its star. Researchers used a specialized telescope attachment that mimicked the effects of a solar eclipse to reduce the light from the host star, making it possible to observe the planet.
The team, led by Dr. Anne-Marie Lagrange, believe their findings strongly suggest that the image shows a previously undiscovered exoplanet. While there is a small chance that the images may show a background galaxy, this is unlikely given the evidence. The discovery marks another milestone in James Webb’s illustrious career, following recent breakthroughs like capturing an “Einstein Ring” and observing the most distant galaxy ever seen.
Source: https://www.engadget.com/science/space/nasas-james-webb-space-telescope-has-captured-its-first-direct-image-of-an-exoplanet-172346802.html