How Fast Does Beta Pictoris b Spin?

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Beta Pictoris b, an exoplanet, has been measured to have a rotation period of just 8 hours, making it the fastest-spinning planet known. This measurement marks the first time astronomers have successfully determined the rotation of an extrasolar planet. In comparison, Jupiter, the fastest-spinning planet in our solar system, completes a rotation in approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes.

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  • Research the methods used to measure exoplanet rotation
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by Jacob Aron

Do you feel there is never enough time in a day? Then don't move to Beta Pictoris b. A day on this fast-paced exoplanet lasts just 8 hours, making it a poor choice for the temporally challenged.

Link: New Scientist
 
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CygnusX-1 said:
by Jacob Aron

Do you feel there is never enough time in a day? Then don't move to Beta Pictoris b. A day on this fast-paced exoplanet lasts just 8 hours, making it a poor choice for the temporally challenged.

Link: New Scientist

What's the news here? Jupiter, in our own solar system, has a day equal to just under 10 hours.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter
 
The news is twofold:

First, this is the first time astronomers have measured an extrasolar planet's rotation.

Second, the planet spins faster than any in our solar system. Jupiter, the Sun's fastest-spinning planet, rotates once every 9 hours, 55 minutes.
 

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