artist concept represents the rocky exoplanet GJ 486 b (IMAGE)
Caption
This artist concept represents the rocky exoplanet GJ 486 b, which orbits a red dwarf star that is only 26 light-years away in the constellation Virgo. By observing GJ 486 b transit in front of its star, astronomers sought signs of an atmosphere. They detected hints of water vapor. However, they caution that while this might be a sign of a planetary atmosphere, the water could be on the star itself – specifically, in cool starspots – and not from the planet at all.
Credit
Credits: NASA, ESA, CSA, Joseph Olmsted (STScI)
Usage Restrictions
No restrictions.
License
Public Domain