K2-137b

K2-137b is a hot Jupiter exoplanet orbiting the star K2-137, located approximately 740 light-years away in the constellation Aquarius. It was discovered by the Kepler space telescope during its K2 mission. K2-137b is notable for being part of a near-resonant system with another planet, K2-137c.

Discovery: K2-137b was discovered through the transit method, which involves observing the slight dimming of a star's light as a planet passes in front of it. The data collected by the Kepler space telescope during its K2 mission revealed periodic dips in the brightness of K2-137, indicating the presence of a transiting planet.

Orbital Characteristics: K2-137b has a very short orbital period of approximately 0.39 days (about 9.4 hours). This close proximity to its host star classifies it as a hot Jupiter. The planet's small orbital distance results in extremely high temperatures.

Physical Characteristics: While the exact mass and radius of K2-137b are subject to ongoing research and refinement, it is estimated to have a radius roughly similar to that of Jupiter. Its extremely short orbital period and proximity to its star suggest a highly inflated atmosphere due to intense stellar radiation.

Planetary System: K2-137b is part of a multi-planetary system. The other confirmed planet in the system, K2-137c, has a longer orbital period and is in a near 5:3 orbital resonance with K2-137b. This means that for every five orbits of K2-137b, K2-137c completes approximately three orbits. Such orbital resonances can provide insights into the formation and evolution of planetary systems.

Significance: The K2-137 system is of interest to astronomers because it provides an opportunity to study the dynamics of closely packed planetary systems and the effects of stellar radiation on hot Jupiter atmospheres. The near-resonant configuration of the planets suggests a complex history of gravitational interactions.