NASA scientists probe Earth-like planet for atmosphere, water

Published: Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at 5:49 pm

NASA Uses Webb Telescope to Study Potentially Habitable Exoplanet

NASA scientists are utilizing the James Webb Space Telescope to investigate the exoplanet TRAPPIST-1 e, an Earth-sized world orbiting the red dwarf star TRAPPIST-1. The TRAPPIST-1 system, discovered in 2017, contains seven Earth-sized planets, with TRAPPIST-1 e being uniquely positioned within the "habitable zone," where liquid water could theoretically exist on its surface.

The primary objective of the current research is to determine if TRAPPIST-1 e possesses an atmosphere. Scientists are employing the Webb telescope's Near-Infrared Spectrograph to analyze starlight passing through the planet's atmosphere. If an atmosphere is present, it will absorb specific wavelengths of light, creating dips in the light spectrum that can reveal the atmospheric composition.

Researchers are also studying another planet in the system, TRAPPIST-1 b, which has been confirmed to lack an atmosphere. Comparing the data from both planets will provide a more comprehensive understanding of TRAPPIST-1 e's potential atmosphere. Initial observations suggest that TRAPPIST-1 e may not have retained a primary atmosphere composed of hydrogen and helium, likely due to the star's frequent flares and intense radiation. However, the planet could have developed a secondary atmosphere, similar to Earth's.

The presence of water on TRAPPIST-1 e is another key area of investigation. Scientists are exploring various possibilities, including the absence of water, the existence of oceans, or the presence of ice on the planet's permanently dark side. If liquid water exists, it could potentially lead to a greenhouse effect, where gases like carbon dioxide regulate the atmosphere and warm the planet.

The research team, led by Néstor Espinoza of the Space Telescope Science Institute, has published initial findings, emphasizing the early stages of this exploration. The Webb telescope's advanced capabilities are providing unprecedented detail in studying exoplanets, offering insights into the potential for life beyond Earth.

BNN's Perspective:

The ongoing research into TRAPPIST-1 e represents a significant step forward in our understanding of exoplanets and the potential for life beyond our solar system. While the findings are preliminary, the use of the James Webb Space Telescope offers exciting possibilities for future discoveries. The focus on both atmospheric composition and the potential for water underscores the complexity of the search for habitable worlds. It is important to approach these findings with a sense of cautious optimism, recognizing the need for continued research and analysis.

Keywords: NASA, James Webb Space Telescope, exoplanet, TRAPPIST-1 e, atmosphere, water, habitable zone, starlight, Near-Infrared Spectrograph, TRAPPIST-1, red dwarf star, exoplanet research, space exploration, astrobiology, scientific discovery

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