Researchers at Lund University have discovered the rare metal terbium in the atmosphere of KELT-9 b, the galaxy’s hottest exoplanet, which is situated about 670 light-years from Earth. KELT-9 b has an average temperature of approximately 4,000 degrees Celsius and has intrigued astronomers since its discovery in 2016. The team developed a new analysis method that allows for more detailed study of exoplanet atmospheres, leading to the identification of seven elements, including terbium, marking its first detection in any exoplanet atmosphere. Nicholas Borsato, a PhD student in astrophysics, noted that finding terbium is surprising due to its rarity, with most of the world’s production occurring in Inner Mongolia. The researchers utilized advanced measurement techniques to filter signals from KELT-9 b’s atmosphere, enhancing the potential for studying other exoplanets. Insights gained from detecting heavier elements could help determine the ages and formation processes of exoplanets, furthering the quest to find Earth-like worlds. As of now, over 5,000 exoplanets have been confirmed, igniting interest in the possibility of extraterrestrial life. This finding not only sheds light on KELT-9 b’s unique conditions but also contributes to a broader understanding of exoplanetary atmospheres.
