Published , Modified Abstract on Dwarf Planet Makemake: A Frigid World Without an Atmosphere Original source
Dwarf Planet Makemake: A Frigid World Without an Atmosphere
Dwarf planet Makemake is one of the most distant objects in our solar system, located beyond the orbit of Neptune. Despite being discovered in 2005, little was known about this frigid world until recently. In 2012, scientists revealed that Makemake lacks an atmosphere, which has shed light on its unique characteristics and composition.
What is a Dwarf Planet?
Before delving into the specifics of Makemake, it's important to understand what a dwarf planet is. According to the International Astronomical Union (IAU), a dwarf planet is a celestial body that orbits the sun, has sufficient mass to assume a nearly round shape, and has not cleared its orbit of other debris. There are currently five recognized dwarf planets in our solar system: Pluto, Eris, Haumea, Makemake, and Ceres.
The Discovery of Makemake
Makemake was discovered on March 31st, 2005 by a team of astronomers led by Michael Brown at the California Institute of Technology. It was named after the creation deity of the Rapa Nui people of Easter Island.
Lack of Atmosphere
In 2012, scientists used data from the Spitzer Space Telescope to study Makemake's thermal emission. They found that it lacked an atmosphere, which was surprising given its size and distance from the sun. The lack of an atmosphere means that Makemake does not have weather patterns or seasons like Earth and other planets with atmospheres.
Characteristics and Composition
Makemake is approximately two-thirds the size of Pluto and has a surface temperature of around -243 degrees Celsius (-405 degrees Fahrenheit). Its surface is covered in methane and ethane ice, which gives it a reddish-brown color. It also has a dark spot on its surface that is believed to be a result of methane being converted into more complex molecules by the sun's ultraviolet radiation.
Importance of Studying Dwarf Planets
Studying dwarf planets like Makemake can provide valuable insights into the formation and evolution of our solar system. They are remnants from the early stages of our solar system's formation and can help us understand how planets and other celestial bodies were created. Additionally, studying dwarf planets can help us better understand the potential for life on other planets and moons.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the discovery that Makemake lacks an atmosphere has revealed new insights into this distant frigid world. Its unique characteristics and composition make it an important object to study in our solar system. As we continue to explore and learn more about dwarf planets, we will gain a better understanding of our place in the universe.
FAQs
1. Is Makemake visible from Earth?
- Yes, but it is very faint and can only be seen with a telescope.
2. How far away is Makemake from Earth?
- Makemake is approximately 4.4 billion miles away from Earth.
3. Could there be life on Makemake?
- It is unlikely given its lack of atmosphere and extreme cold temperatures.
4. How was Makemake named?
- It was named after the creation deity of the Rapa Nui people of Easter Island.
5. What is the significance of studying dwarf planets?
- Studying dwarf planets can provide valuable insights into the formation and evolution of our solar system, as well as the potential for life on other planets and moons.
This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.