Astronomers reveal new planetary insights regarding atmospheres and Mars' internal heat

Researchers have introduced a new concept called the ‘cosmic shoreline’ to explain how lava planets can maintain thick atmospheres despite being close to their host stars. Modeling of planetary interiors and atmospheres suggests that bubbling molten rock on the surface can slow the release of gases, preventing atmospheric loss from stellar radiation. This discovery helps explain why certain super-Earths, such as 55 Cancri e, possess dense atmospheres even when positioned much closer to their stars than previously thought possible.

In separate planetary research, scientists from Caltech have discovered significant thermal asymmetry within Mars. By analyzing gravity data from the Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Odyssey, and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter missions, researchers found that the southern hemisphere's mantle is between 200 and 400 degrees Celsius warmer than the north. This internal temperature difference may account for observed magnetic anomalies and seismic wave scattering on the Red Planet.