Webb observes HD 80606 b heating dramatically near its star

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope captured dramatic heating of HD 80606 b, a gas giant about four times the mass of Jupiter on an extremely elliptical orbit that sweeps close to a Sun-like star. As the planet plunges near periastron, Webb shows its temperature skyrockets by 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit.

The research team presented the study and preliminary findings Tuesday at the 248th meeting of the American Astronomical Society in Pasadena, California. Scientists measured temperature and chemical composition using spectroscopy and an extended observation with Webb’s MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument) taken before, during, and after the planet’s closest pass.

During periastron the planet also slipped behind its star from Webb’s perspective in a secondary eclipse. Scheduling the observation required years of planning because of the planet’s highly elliptical 111-day orbit and Webb’s seasonal pointing restrictions. Researchers say the exoplanet’s dramatic swings make it an ideal laboratory for seeing chemistry and clouds change in real time.

United States, Pasadena, California

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