Nasa's Webb Telescope Observes Exoplanet Under Intense Heat

WHO:

Phys.org - Researchers analyzing NASA's James Webb Space Telescope observations of HD 80606 b.

NASA - Research team presenting their study.

WHAT:

CNET - The exoplanet HD 80606 b experiences massive temperature fluctuations due to its elliptical orbit, which brings it perilously close to its home star.

Phys.org - HD 80606 b is an exoplanet four times the mass of Jupiter.

NASA - The exoplanet has an extremely elliptical orbit that sweeps close by its sun-like star.

Phys.org - The research team is presenting preliminary findings at the 248th meeting of the American Astronomical Society (AAS248).

WHERE:

Phys.org - The presentation is taking place in Pasadena, California.

WHEN:

Phys.org - The research team is presenting their study and preliminary findings on Tuesday at the 248th meeting of the American Astronomical Society (AAS248).

WHY:

Space.com - The extreme conditions on HD 80606 b challenge existing definitions of what constitutes a "Hot Jupiter."

HOW:

Phys.org - The research team utilized NASA's James Webb Space Telescope to gather data on the exoplanet's atmospheric conditions.

NASA - Observations made using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope.

(UPDATED June 17, 2026 23:24 UTC)

Scientists have discovered that the exoplanet HD 80606 b experiences dramatic temperature swings because its elliptical orbit brings it dangerously close to its home star. These extreme conditions are prompting researchers to rethink what defines a "Hot Jupiter." To gather data on the exoplanet's atmospheric conditions, the research team used NASA's James Webb Space Telescope.

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(UPDATED June 17, 2026 14:18 UTC)

Researchers are set to present their study on the exoplanet HD 80606 b, which is four times the mass of Jupiter, at the 248th meeting of the American Astronomical Society in Pasadena, California. This exoplanet has an extremely elliptical orbit that brings it close to its sun-like star, and the findings are based on observations made using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. The presentation will take place on Tuesday, showcasing the team's preliminary results.