James Webb Telescope Discovers New Class of Exoplanets with Potential for Life
NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has identified a new category of "hycean" exoplanets with hydrogen-rich atmospheres and ocean surfaces that could harbor microbial life.
Exoplanet Discovery
NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has identified a previously unknown class of exoplanets that scientists believe could support microbial life.
Discovery Details
- Planet type: "Hycean" worlds — hydrogen atmosphere with liquid water oceans
- Number found: 7 confirmed candidates across 5 star systems
- Distance: 35 to 120 light-years from Earth
- Size: 2-3x Earth radius
Atmospheric Analysis
JWST's infrared spectrometer detected:
- Water vapor in significant quantities
- Methane and carbon dioxide signatures
- Absence of toxic atmospheric components
- Temperature ranges compatible with liquid water
Significance
These hycean worlds expand the traditional habitable zone concept significantly, as their thick hydrogen atmospheres create greenhouse effects that can maintain habitable temperatures even at greater distances from their host stars.
"We may need to completely rethink where we look for life in the universe," said the lead astronomer.