The composition of the gas atmosphere of the exoplanet TOI-270 d has been determined, but opinions on its surface vary. The James Webb Space Telescope has detected chemical compounds in the atmosphere, suggesting the presence of water vapor, methane and carbon dioxide. However, there are differing views on whether the planet’s surface could support liquid water based on its temperature and pressure.
A group of astronomers from Cantabrigian University believe that the chemical composition of the planet’s gas atmosphere indicates the presence of an ocean covering the entire surface. According to their interpretation, the ocean’s temperature could reach over a hundred degrees Celsius. This is based on the absence of ammonia in the atmosphere which suggests an ocean is present.
Another team of astronomers from Canada have a different interpretation of the data. They believe that TOI-270 d is too hot for liquid water to exist on its surface with temperatures reaching up to 4,000 degrees Celsius. Instead, they propose that it has a very dense atmosphere of hydrogen and water vapor.
TOI-270 d orbits in a locked position which means it always faces its parent star while presenting darkness to other side causing extreme temperature variations on this planet. Some scientists however believe that life could still exist in these borderlands between day and night temperatures.
This discovery has sparked debate among astronomers about the potential habitability of this exoplanet, further research and observations will be necessary to determine its true nature as an intriguing world in space
