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New 3D Map Unveils WASP-18b's Atmospheric Secrets

10/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The first three-dimensional map of WASP-18b reveals temperature variations in its atmosphere, including a zone hot enough to break down water vapor.
The study, published in Nature Astronomy on October 28, 2025, uses three-dimensional eclipse mapping (3D eclipse mapping) that builds on two-dimensional models and suggests applicability to other exoplanets.
The research team, co-led by the University of Maryland and Cornell University, analyzed data from NASA's James Webb Space Telescope.

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Story summary

The first three-dimensional map of WASP-18b reveals temperature variations in its atmosphere, including a zone hot enough to break down water vapor.
The study, published in Nature Astronomy on October 28, 2025, uses three-dimensional eclipse mapping (3D eclipse mapping) that builds on two-dimensional models and suggests applicability to other exoplanets.
The research team, co-led by the University of Maryland and Cornell University, analyzed data from NASA's James Webb Space Telescope.