An Alien Planet Entirely Covered by Ocean Observed

Observation of 'TOI-1452b' Planet
Considered a 'Sea Planet'

Artist's impression of the exoplanet TOI-1452 b, which is estimated to be entirely covered by oceans
[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Nayeon] An exoplanet entirely covered by oceans has been reported in the constellation Draco, about 100 light-years away from Earth.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) announced on the 24th (local time) that the planet 'TOI-1452b', completely covered by deep oceans, was observed.

According to NASA, this planet is considered an 'ocean planet' entirely covered by deep oceans, orbiting within the so-called 'Goldilocks zone,' where it is neither too hot nor too cold for liquid water to exist.

An international research team led by Professor Ren? Doyon of the University of Montreal in Canada explained, "The planet is likely rocky like Earth," but added, "Its radius, mass, and density present characteristics different from Earth."

While 70% of Earth's surface is covered by oceans, water accounts for less than 1% of Earth's total mass.

In contrast, TOI-1452b, which is about 70% larger than Earth, is estimated to have up to 30% of its total mass composed of water. This ratio is similar to that of Jupiter's moons Ganymede and Callisto, or Saturn's moons Titan and Enceladus, where the entire body is covered by water.

The research team stated, "TOI-1452b is one of the best candidates for an ocean planet among those discovered so far," adding, "The planet's radius and mass indicate a much lower density than expected for a planet composed of metal and rock."

They also mentioned that this exoplanet is a perfect candidate for observation by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), which has recently begun full-scale scientific observations.

The researchers explained, "TOI-1452b is one of the few planets with a suitable temperature showing characteristics of an ocean planet," and "It is close enough to Earth to observe its atmosphere and is located in a position observable throughout the year," which makes it an ideal target.

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