An international team of researchers has utilized NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope to analyze the weather patterns on the hot gas-giant exoplanet WASP-43 b.

By combining precise brightness measurements across a wide spectrum of mid-infrared light with advanced 3D climate models and previous observations, they have uncovered intriguing details about the planet’s atmosphere.

The findings suggest the presence of thick clouds on the nightside, while the dayside appears to have clear skies, with equatorial winds reaching speeds of up to 5,000 miles per hour.

This study showcases the remarkable capabilities of the James Webb Space Telescope in unraveling the mysteries of distant exoplanets.

WASP-43 b, classified as a “hot Jupiter,” orbits very close to its star, causing it to be tidally locked, with one side always facing the star and the other in perpetual darkness, NASA reported.

Despite being challenging to directly observe due to its proximity to its star, WASP-43 b’s short orbital period makes it ideal for phase curve spectroscopy, enabling researchers to glean valuable insights into its atmospheric composition and dynamics.

Written by B.C. Begley