Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science TOI-270 d: Unveiling the secrets of a sub-Neptune
May 7, 2025
Join planetary geochemist Chris Glein, who specializes in ocean worlds, and Jack Kiraly, Director of Government Relations at the Planetary Society, as they dive into the fascinating exoplanet TOI-270d. Discover the groundbreaking findings from the James Webb Space Telescope regarding the atmospheric chemistry of sub-Neptunes and their potential for life. The conversation also highlights looming budget cuts to NASA, threatening vital science programs, and emphasizes the need for public advocacy to secure support for space exploration.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
TOI-270d Unlocks Sub-Neptune Mysteries
- TOI-270d is a nearby sub-Neptune revealing key clues about the most common planets in our galaxy.
- Despite lacking sub-Neptunes in our solar system, studying TOI-270d helps unlock their mysterious nature.
Heishin vs Magma Oceans
- The presence or absence of water oceans beneath hydrogen atmospheres differentiates Heishin worlds from magma ocean planets.
- TOI-270d is likely a magma ocean world, not a Heishin, helping refine sub-Neptune classification.
Quenching Reveals Atmospheric Depths
- Quenching occurs when molecules in a cooling atmosphere stop reacting, preserving molecules at certain depths.
- This helps determine atmospheric mixing rates and reveals conditions deeper in planetary atmospheres.