Some Of The Strangest Exoplanets In Space

The silica particles swept along by HD 189773b's harsh winds may form glass, and could even be responsible for the planet's azure color. TrES-2b, on the other hand, appears blacker than both coal and black acrylic paint. Scientists aren't entirely sure why the planet reflects less than 1% of the light that hits it, but theorize that chemicals in its atmosphere might absorb the light.

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Key Facts In This Video

  1. On HD 189773b, winds propel particles of silicate around the planet at up to 7,000 km/hr (4,350 mph). 01:02

  2. The planet HAT-P-7b orbits its star in the opposite direction of most planets. 02:16

  3. TrES-2b reflects only 1% of the light that hits it. 04:08

Written by Curiosity Staff April 11, 2015