Exoplanet Epsilon Indi Ab found to have ammonia-rich atmosphere
Updated
Updated · Dexerto · May 6
Exoplanet Epsilon Indi Ab found to have ammonia-rich atmosphere
10 articles · Updated · Dexerto · May 6
James Webb Space Telescope observations of the gas giant 12 light-years away also identified water-ice, cirrus-like clouds, scientists said in findings reported in April 2026.
Researchers had expected Jupiter-like amounts of ammonia, but comparisons suggested somewhat less than predicted, offering fresh detail on the structure and chemistry of cold, distant planetary atmospheres.
Epsilon Indi Ab, discovered in 2002 and confirmed in 2018, is a super-Jupiter orbiting a K-type star; the finding also drew viral social media attention over its urine-like smell.
How does the discovery of water-ice clouds and ammonia on Epsilon Indi Ab challenge our current models of giant planet atmospheres?
What does the viral nickname 'Piss Planet' reveal about public engagement with exoplanet discoveries and the communication of complex science?