Scientists detect massive Helium from exoplanet WASP-107b

Massive helium escape from exoplanet WASP-107b (Image: University of Geneva/NCCR PlanetS/Thibaut Roger)

Astronomers observed massive helium clouds escaping from exoplanet WASP-107b. The discovery was made using the James Webb Space Telescope. WASP-107b is located about two hundred and ten light-years away. The planet orbits extremely close to its parent star continuously.

Helium forms an extended envelope around the planet’s atmosphere. This exosphere stretches nearly ten times the planet’s total radius. Gas escapes both ahead and behind along the orbital path. The phenomenon highlights dramatic atmospheric loss from close-in giant planets.

An international team led the study using advanced space instruments. The research was conducted by the astronomers from the University of Geneva (UNIGE) and the National Centre of Competence in Research. These researchers specialise in exoplanet atmospheres and stellar interaction modelling. They observed giant clouds of helium escaping from the exoplanet WASP-107b.

WASP-107b is a “super-puff” with low mass and large size. Its helium envelope confirms rapid atmospheric escape over extended periods. The planet’s proximity to its star drives extreme heating and loss. Such findings provide direct evidence for evolution of exoplanet atmospheres.

Understanding atmospheric escape helps model exoplanet life cycles accurately. Super-puff planets could lose mass and transform into smaller planets. Observations also reveal how radiation affects planetary atmospheres over time. This study aids prediction of habitability for distant exoplanets.

Astronomers plan to monitor other similar exoplanets for helium loss. Further observations may reveal trends across different star types and ages. These studies will refine models of exoplanet formation and evolution. JWST continues to provide unparalleled insight into distant planetary systems.