Our universe is full of amazing planets, each with its own unique features. One of the most interesting planets is called WASP-12b. Let’s learn about this egg-shaped planet, how it was discovered, and why it looks so different from other planets.
WASP-12b is a type of planet known as a “hot Jupiter.” This means it is similar to Jupiter, the giant planet in our solar system, but it orbits very close to its star. WASP-12b is located more than 1,200 light-years away in a group of stars called the constellation Auriga. It was discovered by a team of scientists using a project called the Wide Angle Search for Planets (WASP), which uses big cameras to find planets far away.
The name “WASP-12b” tells us that it was the 12th planet found by the WASP team. The “b” means it is the first planet discovered around the star named WASP-12. In astronomy, new planets often get names based on when they were found, instead of names like Mars or Venus.
One of the coolest things about WASP-12b is its shape. It looks like an egg! This is because the star it orbits pulls on it with strong gravity, stretching the planet into an elongated shape. This happens because WASP-12b is very close to its star.
WASP-12b is not just special because of its shape; it is also extremely hot. The temperature on this planet can reach over 4,000 degrees Fahrenheit! This is because it is so close to its star. The heat is so intense that the planet is losing its atmosphere. Scientists think that in about 10 million years, WASP-12b might be completely swallowed by its star.
WASP-12b isn’t the only celestial body with an unusual shape. There’s also Haumea, a dwarf planet in the Kuiper Belt, which is beyond Neptune in our solar system. Haumea is shaped like an egg too, and this is because it spins very fast and has had collisions with other objects.
The Kuiper Belt is a region in our solar system filled with icy and rocky objects, like comets and asteroids. It’s like a treasure chest of ancient space rocks that can teach us about how our solar system was formed a long time ago.
WASP-12b is a fascinating example of how diverse planets can be in our universe. Its egg-like shape and extreme conditions show us how dynamic and interesting space can be. As we continue to explore the universe, planets like WASP-12b remind us of the amazing things that exist beyond our own planet and why it’s important to keep studying the stars.
Shape Exploration: Find different objects around your home that are shaped like an egg. These could be toys, fruits, or even kitchen items. Once you have a few, compare them to pictures of WASP-12b. Discuss with a family member or friend why you think WASP-12b is shaped like an egg and how gravity might affect its shape.
Temperature Experiment: WASP-12b is extremely hot! Try a simple experiment to understand heat. Place a thermometer in a sunny spot and another in a shaded area. Check the temperatures after an hour. Discuss why the sunny spot is hotter and relate it to how WASP-12b is close to its star, making it very hot.
Star and Planet Naming Game: Create your own star and planet names using the method astronomers use. For example, if your star is called “Star-Alpha,” the first planet you discover around it could be “Star-Alpha b.” Draw pictures of your star and planet, and describe any special features they might have, like WASP-12b’s egg shape.
