James Webb discovers a scorching lava planet with a “giant sunscreen”

ScienceDaily reports: James Webb Space Telescope observations suggest that TOI-561 b reflects about 75% of incoming starlight, possibly because of mineral clouds that act like a giant sunscreen.

A scorching lava planet 280 light-years away has surprised astronomers by apparently maintaining a thick atmosphere despite conditions that should have stripped it away billions of years ago. The planet may also be continually replenishing its atmosphere through gases released from a global ocean of molten rock.

This science story centres on the United States. Names and organisations mentioned in the coverage include James Webb, James Webb Space Telescope and TOI-.

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Key details

Location

United States · Americas

Reported by

ScienceDaily

First reported

27 Oct 2026, 15:50 IST

Key names

James Webb, James Webb Space Telescope, TOI-

Section

Science

Sources

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• ScienceDailyJames Webb discovers a scorching lava planet with a “giant sunscreen” 27 Oct, 15:50

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