新研究发现大气中富含碳分子的奇特系外行星

Core Insights - An international team has discovered a unique exoplanet, PSR J2322-2650b, which challenges existing astronomical theories due to its carbon-rich atmosphere [1][2] - The planet orbits a pulsar with a very short orbital period of approximately 7.8 hours and has a mass similar to Jupiter but a slightly higher density [1] - The atmosphere of this exoplanet is primarily composed of helium and carbon, with very low levels of oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen, suggesting that carbon molecules may form diamonds under immense pressure [1] Group 1 - The exoplanet PSR J2322-2650b is shaped like an oblate spheroid due to the strong gravitational pull of its pulsar, differing from the typical spherical shape of planets [1] - This planet is categorized as a "hot Jupiter," characterized by its gaseous nature and proximity to its parent star, resulting in a very high surface temperature [1] - The spectral analysis indicates that the carbon exists in molecular form rather than as carbon dioxide or hydrocarbons, which is unusual for hot Jupiters [1] Group 2 - Researchers are investigating whether PSR J2322-2650b can be classified as a rare "black widow" pulsar system, where the pulsar consumes the material of its companion star [2] - Unlike previously identified "black widow" systems, this exoplanet exhibits characteristics that align with hot Jupiters in terms of mass, density, and surface temperature [2] - The traditional theory regarding "black widow" pulsars, which suggests that the companion star is gradually stripped of its outer layers, does not adequately explain the unique chemical composition of PSR J2322-2650b's atmosphere [2]