Using NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) and various telescopes, astronomers have discovered a temperate, Earth-sized exoplanet orbiting a cool red dwarf called Gliese 12.
Key Details:
- Location: Gliese 12 is a M3-type dwarf star located 12.2 parsecs (40 light-years) away in the constellation of Pisces.
- Characteristics: Gliese 12 is about 27% of the Sun’s size and has about 60% of the Sun’s surface temperature.
- Name: Also known as TOI-6251 or GJ 12.
Properties of Gliese 12b
The newly discovered exoplanet, Gliese 12b, is approximately Earth-sized and exhibits several intriguing features.
Characteristics:
- Size: Earth-sized or slightly smaller, comparable to Venus.
- Orbital Period: 12.76 days.
- Equilibrium Temperature: Around 42 degrees Celsius (107 degrees Fahrenheit).
Comparisons:
- Gliese 12b receives 1.6 times more energy from its star compared to Earth and about 85% of what Venus experiences.
- Its equilibrium temperature is higher than Earth’s average surface temperature but lower than Venus’.
Potential Atmosphere and Habitability
The presence and nature of Gliese 12b’s atmosphere pose significant questions regarding its habitability and atmospheric dynamics.
Habitability Factors:
- Atmospheric Influence: The type of atmosphere could substantially affect the actual surface temperature.
- Equilibrium Temperature: Quoted temperature assuming no atmosphere.
- Scientific Value: Understanding its potential atmosphere is crucial for assessing habitability.
Comparative Study:
- Bridging the gap between Earth and Venus in terms of received energy.
- Insight into the habitability pathways of planets during development.
Astronomical Significance
Studying Gliese 12b offers insights into exoplanet atmospheres and contributes to broader astronomical knowledge.
Scientific Value:
- Transmission Spectroscopy: Transit observations provide valuable chemical fingerprints for atmosphere analysis.
- Planetary Diversity: More examples like Gliese 12b are needed to understand atmospheric diversity and evolutionary outcomes.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Where is Gliese 12 located?
- A) 12.2 light-years away in the constellation of Pisces
- B) 40 light-years away in the constellation of Pisces
- C) 12.2 parsecs away in the constellation of Pisces
- D) 40 parsecs away in the constellation of Pisces
- Answer: C) 12.2 parsecs away in the constellation of Pisces
- What is the size of Gliese 12 compared to the Sun?
- A) About half the size
- B) About a quarter of the size
- C) About the same size
- D) About twice the size
- Answer: B) About a quarter of the size
- What is the orbital period of Gliese 12b?
- A) 12.76 days
- B) 42 days
- C) 107 days
- D) 40 days
- Answer: A) 12.76 days
- What is the equilibrium temperature of Gliese 12b?
- A) 15 degrees Celsius
- B) 42 degrees Celsius
- C) 59 degrees Fahrenheit
- D) 85 degrees Celsius
- Answer: B) 42 degrees Celsius
- Why is studying Gliese 12b significant for astronomers?
- A) It is the largest exoplanet discovered so far.
- B) It orbits the closest star to Earth.
- C) It helps understand exoplanet atmospheres and habitability.
- D) It is similar to Earth in every aspect.
- Answer: C) It helps understand exoplanet atmospheres and habitability.