Investigating the Makeup of a Transiting Mini-Neptune Exoplanet
Recently, scientists have discovered a new exoplanet outside of our solar system - a mini Neptune-like planet known as LTT 1445Ab. The planet is located around 11.4 light years away from Earth and is about twice the size of Earth. Even more fascinating is the fact that this exoplanet is the first of its kind to be characterized with a gaseous atmosphere.
Using the Very Large Telescope in Chile, researchers were able to measure the amount of sodium in the planet’s atmosphere. These observations revealed that the atmosphere of LTT 1445Ab is composed of hydrogen, helium and a significant amount of sodium. This discovery is significant because it provides insight into the composition of other planets beyond our solar system.
source: Phys.org