Kepler 1638 b Planet
Embark on a cosmic exploration as we uncover the mysteries surrounding Kepler-1638 b, a super Earth exoplanet nestled in the Cygnus constellation. From its discovery to its unique characteristics and potential habitability, join us in unraveling the enigma of this distant celestial body.
Kepler 1638 b Size Compared to Earth in Percentage
The size of Kepler 1638 b is provided as 1.87+0.33−0.22 R🜨. To express this in percentage compared to Earth, we use the formula: . Plugging in the values, we get . Therefore, Kepler 1638 b is approximately 125.50% of Earth's size.
Kepler 1638 b Mass Compared to Earth in Percentage
The mass of Kepler 1638 b is given as 4.16 Earths. To express this in percentage compared to Earth, we use the formula: . Plugging in the values, we get . Therefore, Kepler 1638 b has a mass approximately 416% of Earth's mass.
Kepler 1638 b Surface Gravity Compared to Earth
The surface gravity of a planet is determined by its mass and radius. Unfortunately, the exact Earth radius value is not provided, making it challenging to precisely calculate Kepler 1638 b's surface gravity compared to Earth.
Surface Temperature of Kepler 1638 b
The surface temperature of Kepler 1638 b is not explicitly mentioned in the provided information.
Does Kepler 1638 b Have Oxygen
The information provided does not specify the presence or absence of oxygen in the atmosphere of Kepler 1638 b.
Is Kepler 1638 b Habitable
The habitability of Kepler 1638 b is subject to debate due to a revised estimate of its distance from Earth. Initially considered potentially habitable, with a distance of about 2,867.000 light-years, a 2018 study revised the planetary radius estimate, suggesting it might be an ice giant like Neptune, making it not potentially habitable in an Earth-like sense.
Kepler 1638 b Atmosphere Composition
Details about the atmosphere composition of Kepler 1638 b are not provided in the available information.
Kepler 1638 b Distance from Earth in Light Years
The distance from Earth to Kepler 1638 b is initially mentioned as approximately 2,867.000 light-years. This makes it one of the farthest potentially habitable exoplanets discovered.
10 Interesting Fun Facts About Kepler 1638 b
- Discovery: Discovered by NASA's Kepler spacecraft using the transit method.
- Size Comparison: Kepler 1638 b is approximately 125.50% of Earth's size.
- Mass Comparison: The planet has a mass of approximately 416% of Earth's mass.
- Characteristics: Earth-sized and orbits within its star's habitable zone.
- Star: Orbits a G-type star named Kepler-1638 located in the constellation Cygnus.
- Orbit: Completes an orbit in about 259.3 days, with a distance of 0.745 AU from its star.
- Distance: The system is located about 4975 light-years away from Earth.
- Habitability: Initially considered potentially habitable, but a 2018 study suggests it might be an ice giant like Neptune.
- Revision: Gaia parallax data in 2018 led to a revision of the distance and planetary radius estimates.
- Habitability Factors: While in the habitable zone, other factors like atmosphere and composition are crucial for determining habitability.
Kepler's Revelation
In 2016, NASA's Kepler spacecraft unveiled the existence of Kepler-1638 b, employing the transit method to detect the subtle dimming of its host star's light as the planet traverses its orbit. This discovery marked a crucial milestone in our quest to understand distant exoplanetary systems.
Statistical Validation
Part of a comprehensive study validating hundreds of Kepler planets, Kepler-1638 b emerged as a statistically confirmed super-Earth. The discovery paper outlined its key parameters, including a radius of 1.87 R🜨 and a mass of 4.16 Earths, positioning it as an intriguing celestial entity.
Size and Mass Dynamics
Kepler-1638 b's initial characteristics pointed to a super-Earth, similar in size but more massive than our home planet. With a predicted mass of 4.16 Earths and a radius of 1.87 R🜨, it teased the possibility of a diverse planetary composition.
Orbiting a G-Type Star
Intriguingly, Kepler-1638 b orbits a G-type star, providing a familiar touchpoint to our own Sun. The system's habitable zone comes into focus as the planet completes an orbit of 259.337 days, revolving at a distance of 0.745 AU from its stellar companion.
Distance Conundrum
A twist in the tale unfolded with the Gaia Data Release 2 in 2018, revealing a substantial shift in the estimated distance to Kepler-1638 b. From the initial approximation of 764 parsecs (2,490 light-years), the revised data suggested a vast expanse of 1,548 parsecs (5,050 light-years).
Impact on Planet Characteristics
This newfound distance prompted a reevaluation of the planetary radius. A 2018 study recalculated Kepler-1638 b's radius to be 3.226 R🜨, steering it away from the super-Earth category. Instead, it edged closer to the realm of ice giants like Neptune, altering our perceptions of its potential habitability.
Farthest Potentially Habitable Exoplanet
Initial excitement surrounded Kepler-1638 b as the farthest potentially habitable exoplanet known, situated approximately 2,867,000 light-years away from Earth. However, the revised data introduces nuances, questioning its classification in Earth-like habitability terms.
The Goldilocks Zone
The allure of the habitable zone, often dubbed the "Goldilocks zone," resonates with Kepler-1638 b. Positioned within this region, where conditions may permit liquid water, it triggers contemplation about the potential ingredients for life beyond our solar system.
Conclusion
Kepler-1638 b invites us to ponder the vastness of our universe and the dynamic nature of celestial bodies. As we navigate the intricacies of its discovery, characteristics, and evolving understanding, the distant super Earth remains a beacon, reminding us of the boundless wonders waiting to be unveiled in the cosmic tapestry.