WASP-121 b, an ultra-hot Jupiter exoplanet, has garnered attention for its violent atmospheric winds and unique weather patterns. Located approximately 900 light-years away from Earth, this gas giant possesses about 1.2 times the mass of Jupiter and orbits its star so closely that a year lasts just 30 Earth hours. Due to its proximity to the star, WASP-121 b is tidally locked, with one side perpetually facing the star, resulting in scorching temperatures, while the opposite side remains cooler.
Researchers recently uncovered unexpected and powerful winds ravaging the planet's atmosphere. These winds carry elements like iron and titanium across the planet, creating complex weather systems. The research team observed a massive jet stream spanning half of the planet, which intensifies as it crosses from the cooler nightside to the hotter dayside, causing dramatic atmospheric turbulence.
The team utilized the Very Large Telescope (VLT) instrument ESPRESSO to study WASP-121 b's atmosphere. This cutting-edge instrument allowed them to explore three different atmospheric layers simultaneously. By combining light from multiple telescopes, the VLT provided detailed insights into the faint details of the planet's atmosphere.
"What we found was surprising: a jet stream rotates material around the planet's equator, while a separate flow at lower levels of the atmosphere moves gas from the hot side to the cooler side," said Seidel.
These findings mark a significant advancement in understanding exoplanetary climates. The researchers detected multiple chemical signatures in the atmosphere across various layers, with titanium discovered just below the jet stream—a surprising revelation in their investigation. The team successfully mapped the planet's atmosphere in 3D, uncovering diverse wind patterns at different altitudes.
"This kind of climate has never been seen before on any planet," explained Seidel.
"Even the strongest hurricanes in the solar system seem calm in comparison," Seidel added.
The research published in the journal Nature on February 18 highlights these groundbreaking discoveries. The study showcases the efficacy of ground-based observations in advancing knowledge about distant worlds.
"It's truly mind-blowing that we're able to study details like the chemical makeup and weather patterns of a planet at such a vast distance," remarked Bibiana Prinoth.
WASP-121 b exemplifies how advanced technology and innovative methods can unveil intricate details about distant planets. The presence of iron and titanium carried by fierce winds illustrates a dynamic and volatile atmosphere unlike anything seen before.
"It feels like something out of science fiction," stated Julia Victoria Seidel, reflecting on the extraordinary nature of their findings.
The significance of ground-based telescopes in exoplanet research cannot be overstated. They complement space telescopes by offering insights that might be challenging to achieve otherwise.
"It's the kind of observation that is very challenging to do with space telescopes, highlighting the importance of ground-based observations of exoplanets," emphasized dos Santos.
