Water Clouds Tentatively Detected Just 7 Light-Years from Earth

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Astronomers have detected water ice clouds on a brown dwarf located 7.3 light-years from Earth, marking the first observation of such clouds beyond our solar system. This discovery is significant as it provides potential insights into the characteristics of cool giant planets orbiting other stars. The brown dwarf, which is Jupiter-sized, is situated less than twice the distance of Alpha Centauri, the nearest star system. Confirmation of this finding could enhance our understanding of planetary atmospheres in different solar systems. This breakthrough highlights the ongoing advancements in astronomical research and exploration.
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They're the first water clouds ever seen beyond our solar system

by Ken Croswell, author of The Alchemy of the Heavens: Searching for Meaning in the Milky Way

Astronomers have found signs of water ice clouds on an object just 7.3 light-years from Earth—less than twice the distance of Alpha Centauri, the nearest star system to the sun. If confirmed, the discovery is the first sighting of water clouds beyond our solar system. The clouds shroud a Jupiter-sized object known as a brown dwarf and should yield insight into the nature of cool giant planets orbiting other suns.

Link: Science
 
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