K2-3d Planet
Embark on a cosmic journey as we unravel the enigmatic world of K2-3d, a super-Earth nestled within the habitable zone of the M-type star K2-3. Let's delve into the celestial characteristics, discovery, and potential habitability of this intriguing exoplanet.
K2-3d Size Compared to Earth in Percentage
K2-3d's radius is approximately 1.5 to 1.6 times that of Earth, making it about 50-60% larger in size.
K2-3d Mass Compared to Earth in Percentage
K2-3d has a mass of 2.2 Earths, making it approximately 220% the mass of Earth.
K2-3d Surface Gravity Compared to Earth
The exact surface gravity of K2-3d is not provided, but with a mass of 2.2 Earths, it would likely have stronger surface gravity compared to Earth.
Surface Temperature of K2-3d
K2-3d has an equilibrium temperature of 305 K (32 °C; 89 °F). This temperature suggests that it could have a relatively warm climate, potentially suitable for liquid water.
Does K2-3d Have Oxygen
The available information does not specify whether K2-3d has oxygen. Determining the composition of an exoplanet's atmosphere typically requires direct observational data.
Is K2-3d Habitable
K2-3d is located in the inner (empirical) habitable zone of its star, K2-3. However, it is likely tidally locked, with extreme temperatures on the illuminated and dark sides. The terminator line, where temperatures may be moderate, could be a potential area for habitability. However, the high stellar flux could lead to surface temperatures making it likely too hot for habitation.
K2-3d Atmosphere Composition
The specific composition of K2-3d's atmosphere is not provided. Observations using next-generation telescopes, such as the James Webb Space Telescope, are expected to analyze its atmosphere for potential signs of life or habitability.
K2-3d Distance from Earth in Light Years
K2-3d is located approximately 147 light-years away from Earth in the constellation of Leo.
10 Interesting Fun Facts About K2-3d
- Discovery and Naming: Discovered by NASA's Kepler K2 mission, K2-3d is part of the first multiplanetary system of the mission. It received the designation "d" as the outermost planet in the K2-3 system.
- Size and Mass: With a radius 1.5 to 1.6 times that of Earth, K2-3d is classified as a super-Earth and has a mass of 2.2 Earths.
- Orbit and Host Star: K2-3d orbits the red dwarf star K2-3, which has about 6% of the Sun's luminosity. It completes one orbit every 44.6 days and is situated at a distance of 0.2014 AU from its star.
- Potential Habitable Zone: While located in the inner habitable zone, K2-3d may be tidally locked, posing challenges for habitability. The terminator line, where temperatures could be moderate, is a region of interest.
- Equilibrium Temperature: The equilibrium temperature of K2-3d is 305 K (32 °C; 89 °F), making it a planet with a potentially warm climate.
- Ground-Based Transit Observation: The MuSCAT instrument on the Okayama Astrophysical Observatory's 188-centimeter telescope facilitated the first ground-based transit observation of K2-3d.
- Transit Method: Kepler's K2 mission initially discovered K2-3d using the transit method, observing the planet crossing in front of its host star, causing a slight dimming effect.
- Earth-Based Measurement: Researchers utilized the Okayama Astrophysical Observatory's telescope to make the first Earth-based measurement of K2-3d's orbit, fine-tuning its orbital parameters.
- Spectroscopic Characterizations: Given the brightness of its host star, K2-3d is considered one of the best targets for spectroscopic characterizations of potentially habitable planets.
- Future Observations: With upcoming large-scale telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope, scientists aim to analyze starlight passing through K2-3d's atmosphere during a transit, searching for molecules like oxygen that could indicate the potential existence of life.
A Cosmic Revelation
Explore the revelation of K2-3d, also known as EPIC 201367065 d, a confirmed exoplanet located 143 light-years away in the constellation of Leo. Learn about its discovery in 2015 and its classification as a probable mini-Neptune, making it a distinctive member of the K2-3 planetary system.
Earth-Like Potential
Size and Orbit
Uncover the dimensions and orbital dynamics of K2-3d. With a size 1.5 times that of Earth, this super-Earth completes an orbit around its host star in 44.6 days at a distance of 0.2014 AU. Dive into the nuances of its orbit and proximity to the habitable zone.
The Habitability Conundrum
Explore the potential habitability of K2-3d, residing in the habitable zone where conditions might support liquid water. Despite its proximity to its star, discover why K2-3d could maintain an Earth-like temperature and investigate the prospects of extraterrestrial life.
Groundbreaking Observations
Earth's Watchful Eye
Unravel the groundbreaking observations of K2-3d from both space and Earth. From NASA's Kepler space telescope to the Okayama Astrophysical Observatory's MuSCAT instrument, witness the meticulous tracking of transits and the Earth-based fine-tuning that enhances our understanding of this distant world.
A Spectrum of Insights
Discover how MuSCAT's multi-band capabilities provided a unique perspective, allowing scientists to observe the 0.07 percent brightness decrease caused by K2-3d's transit. Gain insights into the significance of this observation in refining the exoplanet's orbital period, setting the stage for future studies.
The Quest for Extraterrestrial Life
Probing the Atmosphere
Delve into the aspirations of scientists as they plan to use upcoming telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope to analyze K2-3d's atmosphere during transits. Learn how this endeavor aims to detect molecules like oxygen and explore the potential existence of extraterrestrial life.
Future Endeavors
Explore the future prospects of K2-3d and its significance in the ongoing search for habitable planets. Understand the role of upcoming telescopes such as the Thirty Metre Telescope (TMT) and the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) in expanding our knowledge of distant worlds.
Cosmic Statistics
Celestial Coordinates
Navigate through the celestial statistics of K2-3d, from its host star K2-3 to its semi-major axis, eccentricity, and orbital period. Gain a comprehensive overview of the physical characteristics, mass, and temperature that define this super-Earth.
Bridging the Cosmic Divide
Earth's Ground-Based Gaze
Explore the first ground-based transit observation of K2-3d using the MuSCAT instrument. Understand the significance of this observation in refining transit predictions, paving the way for future extraterrestrial life surveys and expanding our cosmic horizons.
The Cosmic Tapestry Unveiled
Kepler's Legacy
Reflect on the legacy of NASA's Kepler mission and its continuous contributions to our understanding of exoplanets. Recognize the significance of K2-3d as part of the first multiplanetary system discovered during the mission's "Second Light."
Embark on this celestial odyssey as we peer into the mysteries of K2-3d, a super-Earth that beckons us to unravel the cosmic tapestry woven across the vastness of space.