WASP-11 b: transit timing and optical spectrum reveal stable orbit and atmospheric features

Star system: WASP-11 A | Distance from the Sun: 424 light years

WASP-11 b, also known as HAT-P-10 b, is a hot Jupiter with a low density, making it a good candidate for studying its atmosphere. Researchers collected 31 new transit observations and combined them with previous ground-based and space-based data to refine the planet's properties and analyze its orbit over 16 years.

The updated analysis shows that WASP-11 b's orbit is stable, with no signs of orbital decay or additional planets affecting its motion. The team also studied the planet's atmosphere using optical transmission spectroscopy. They found a strong Rayleigh scattering slope in the spectrum, which is a sign of small particles or molecules in the upper atmosphere. However, this feature could also be influenced by activity on the host star or light from a nearby companion star.

These results provide a clearer picture of WASP-11 b's orbit and atmosphere, showing that it is a stable system with interesting atmospheric properties that may be affected by both planetary and stellar factors.

Key findings
- WASP-11 b's orbit is stable with no signs of decay
- No evidence for additional planets in the system
- Optical spectrum shows strong Rayleigh scattering
- Atmospheric features may be influenced by stellar activity or companion star
- 31 new transit observations improve planetary parameters

Scientific study

Investigation of Transit Timing and an Optical Transmission Spectrum of the Hot Jupiter WASP-11 b (external link)