‘300 light-years away’: Using NASA’s TESS, amateur astronomers discover ‘Warm Jupiter’ exoplanet
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Amateur Discovery
A group of amateur astronomers, including a high school student from California, has confirmed the existence of a “warm Jupiter” exoplanet located 300 light-years from Earth. This discovery highlights the crucial role of citizen scientists in supporting professional astronomical research.
Planet Identified
The exoplanet, designated TIC 393818343 b, was initially identified as a candidate by NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). Amateur astronomers used backyard telescopes to conduct follow-up observations, confirming the planet’s existence by detecting its transit across its host star.
Credit : NASA
Collaborative Effort
The confirmation of TIC 393818343 b involved two networks of citizen scientists: the UNISTELLAR Network and NASA’s Exoplanet Watch. These groups collaborated by predicting and observing the exoplanet’s transit events, leading to its validation.
Credit : NASA
Type and Characteristics
TIC 393818343 b belongs to a category of exoplanets known as “warm Jupiters,” which are gas giants in a transitional phase between “cold” Jupiters, like our own Jupiter, and “hot” Jupiters, which orbit very close to their stars.
Credit : NASA
Orbital Details
The planet orbits its star in about 16 days, which is shorter than Earth’s orbit around the Sun. Astronomers speculate that the planet could eventually migrate closer to its star, potentially transforming into a hot Jupiter.
Scientific Importance
Studying TIC 393818343 b could provide insights into the evolution of giant planets and the processes that govern their migration. This knowledge may also shed light on the history and formation of our own solar system.
Citizen Scientist Impact
The involvement of amateur astronomers in this discovery underscores the growing significance of citizen science in advancing astronomical research. Their contributions demonstrate that with dedication and the right tools, non-professional astronomers can make meaningful scientific discoveries.