First detection: Astronomers spot atmosphere on potentially habitable exoplanet LHS 1140b
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Space technology (ISRO, missions)· Prelims·
Why in news
Astronomers confirmed the first detection of an atmosphere on a potentially habitable rocky exoplanet, LHS 1140b, which orbits a red dwarf star.
Background
LHS 1140b is a rocky exoplanet located approximately 49 light-years away. It orbits a calm red dwarf star every 25 days within the habitable zone, where liquid water could potentially exist.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TLHS 1140b: A rocky exoplanet located in the habitable zone of a red dwarf star.
- FactDistance: LHS 1140b is located approximately 49 light-years from Earth.
- S&TObservation: Helium was detected escaping the upper atmosphere in 2024 but was absent in 2025.
- S&TOrbital Period: The planet completes one orbit every 25 days.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of detecting atmospheres on rocky exoplanets in the search for extraterrestrial life and the technological advancements required for such observations.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Technological bottleneck: Limitations in current spectroscopic resolution to distinguish between thin and dense atmospheric compositions
- Data interpretation: Challenges in distinguishing between planetary outgassing and atmospheric retention in red dwarf systems
Keywords: Exoplanet · Habitable Zone · Red Dwarf · Spectroscopy · Astrobiology
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