LHS 1140 b (5) by bem1RO on DeviantArt (original) (raw)

General Overview: LHS 1140 b is an intriguing exoplanet located approximately 40 light-years from Earth in the constellation of Sculptor. It orbits the red dwarf star LHS 1140, a star significantly cooler and dimmer than our Sun. Discovered in 2017 by the MEarth Observatory, this exoplanet has captured the interest of astronomers and exoplanet researchers due to its potential for detailed atmospheric study and its location within a relatively close stellar neighborhood.

Planetary Characteristics:

• Type: Super-Earth
• Radius: Approximately 1.4 times that of Earth
• Mass: Approximately 6.7 times that of Earth
• Surface Gravity: Higher than Earth's due to its larger mass and similar size

Orbital and Rotational Properties:

• Orbital Period: 24.7 days
• Distance from Host Star: LHS 1140 b orbits much closer to its host star than Earth does to the Sun, but due to the dimmer nature of LHS 1140, it receives comparable or slightly more stellar radiation than Earth.

Host Star (LHS 1140):

• Type: Red dwarf (M-dwarf)
• Temperature: Cooler and dimmer than the Sun
• Distance from Earth: Approximately 40 light-years

Surface and Atmospheric Conditions:

• Surface: Likely rocky with a diverse terrain that may include rugged mountains, large impact craters, and potentially volcanic plains. The planet’s higher gravity could result in a denser, more compact surface structure.
• Atmosphere: While direct observations of its atmosphere are challenging, there is potential for a thin, hazy atmosphere. If present, it may exhibit a reddish or orange tint due to scattering of the host star's light. The atmospheric composition remains uncertain but is a subject of significant interest for future research.

Habitability Potential: LHS 1140 b resides at the inner edge of the habitable zone of its host star, where liquid water could exist under the right conditions. However, the exact habitability is uncertain due to factors like atmospheric composition and surface temperature, which are still under study.

Scientific Importance: LHS 1140 b is a prime candidate for atmospheric characterization with upcoming telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). Its proximity to Earth and its size make it an excellent target for studying the atmospheres of rocky exoplanets, which could provide insights into the conditions necessary for habitability.