Where's the water?

LordFerret · Post #1by **LordFerret** » 22.02.2007, 03:35

Thought this was interesting, however I think it's a bit premature for a final decision. More research is needed.

"Astronomers surprised by apparent lack of water on distant planets"

Dollan · Post #2by **Dollan** » 22.02.2007, 15:12

I don't think that they're anywhere near drawing any final conclusions, though the reporter of this and other stories made it sound that way.

One thing I'm surious about is if the planet, being in such a tight orbit, is tidally distorted at all.

...John...

PlutonianEmpire · Post #3by **PlutonianEmpire** » 22.02.2007, 23:51

Umm, WHY should they be surprised there's no water? We're talking about HOT jupiters, IIRC.

Post #4by **selden** » 23.02.2007, 12:30

hydrogen + oxygen => H20
Since both elements should be present, the molecules should be, too.

p.s.
To clarify: the detection of water does not imply the detection of liquid water. Water vapor should be detectable.

ajtribick · Post #5by **ajtribick** » 23.02.2007, 14:16

Why is this thread in Purgatory? I'd have thought it was a good candidate for Physics & Astronomy...

Still, at least there are indications of silicate clouds, which means I don't have to go scrambling to remake the hot Jupiter textures.