Webb finds a surprising atmosphere on a scorching lava world

What happened

The James Webb Space Telescope has found strong evidence that the rocky lava world HD 3167 b has an atmosphere, despite circling its star every 24 hours under extreme heat. Science News from research organizations Webb finds a surprising atmosphere on a scorching lava world Date: October 7, 2026 Source: University of Chicago Summary: The James Webb Space Telescope has found strong evidence that the rocky lava world HD 3167 b has an atmosphere, despite circling its star every 24 hours under extreme heat.

Now, researchers have added another world to that short list. The surprising discovery could help scientists understand how rocky planets retain atmospheres and what the young, molten Earth may once have looked like.

Share: Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIN Email FULL STORY For scientists searching for life beyond Earth, rocky planets with atmospheres are among the most promising places to investigate. An atmosphere is essential for maintaining liquid water on a planet's surface. Yet among the more than 6,300 exoplanets cataloged thus far, most are not rocky, and only a small number of known rocky planets appear to possess atmospheres.

Key facts

• The James Webb Space Telescope has — found: strong evidence that the rocky lava world HD 3167 b has an atmosphere, despite circling its star every 24 hours under extreme heat