NASA Unveils Extraordinary Exoplanets: From Marshmallow Worlds to Molten Glass Rain
NASA has discovered planets so strange they sound completely impossible: From worlds that rain molten glass to giant “marshmallow” planets
The Economic TimesImage: The Economic Times
NASA's discoveries of exotic exoplanets challenge traditional views of planetary formation. Notable findings include WASP-193b, a 'marshmallow' planet, and HD 189733 b, where molten glass rains sideways. These revelations highlight the diversity of planetary systems beyond our own, reshaping our understanding of the universe.
- 01NASA has identified numerous exotic exoplanets that defy traditional models of planetary formation.
- 02WASP-193b is dubbed the 'marshmallow planet' due to its large size and low density.
- 03HD 189733 b features extreme conditions where molten glass rains sideways.
- 04Rogue planets, which do not orbit any star, may number in the billions within our galaxy.
- 05Discoveries are prompting a reevaluation of planetary atmospheres and potential life in the universe.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
NASA's recent discoveries of exoplanets have upended conventional understandings of planetary formation and characteristics. Among these, WASP-193b stands out as the 'marshmallow planet', being nearly 50% larger than Jupiter yet much less dense, potentially allowing it to float in water. Another striking find is HD 189733 b, where temperatures exceed 1,000°C and winds reach 5,000 miles per hour, causing silicate particles to condense into glass droplets that rain sideways. The existence of rogue planets, which wander through interstellar space without a star, suggests there could be billions of such worlds in the Milky Way. Additionally, WASP-12b absorbs 94% of visible light, making it one of the darkest known planets. These findings indicate that the universe is far more diverse and complex than previously thought, prompting scientists to reconsider the potential for life and planetary systems beyond our own.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
What do you think about the discovery of exotic exoplanets?
Connecting to poll...
More about NASA
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.


