Space is full of surprises, and scientists keep finding more. One recent discovery has stunned researchers—a massive diamond-like planet. This celestial body, known as PSR J1719-1438b, is five times larger than Earth. But that is not the only glittering world in space. Another planet, 55 Cancri e, also appears to be rich in diamonds.
A Planet Made Almost Entirely of Diamond
Scientists believe PSR J1719-1438b was once part of a star. Its outer layers were stripped away by a neutron star, leaving behind a carbon-rich core. Over time, the immense pressure transformed this core into a diamond-like planet. This rare discovery has deepened astronomers’ interest in unusual planetary formations.
Last year, NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope made another thrilling find. It spotted 55 Cancri e, a super-Earth located 41 light-years away. This planet is twice as wide as Earth and nine times heavier.
Orbiting its host star in just 17 hours, 55 Cancri e experiences extreme heat. Surface temperatures can reach 2,400 degrees Celsius, turning its landscape into molten lava. Scientists also detected a secondary atmosphere, likely caused by volcanic activity.
What makes 55 Cancri e truly remarkable is its possible diamond composition. Studies suggest that a third of its mass may be made of diamond. Instead of the familiar water and rock found on Earth, this planet could be covered in glittering carbon structures like graphite and diamond.
These discoveries challenge our understanding of planetary composition. The presence of diamond planets raises questions about how celestial bodies form. Scientists continue to study these planets, hoping to unlock more secrets of the universe.
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