Yes, while NASA itself didn't directly "find" it, astronomers using data from the Subaru Telescope in Hawaii discovered a planet that would appear pinkish if viewed up close.
The Pink Planet: GJ 504 b
In 2013, astronomers discovered a gas giant planet, designated GJ 504 b, orbiting the star GJ 504. What makes this planet particularly interesting is its color. While planets don't truly have colors in the same way we perceive them on Earth, if humans could travel to GJ 504 b, it would likely appear as a dull magenta, reminiscent of a dark cherry blossom.
Why is it Pink?
This pinkish hue is due to the planet's young age and the residual heat from its formation. GJ 504 b is relatively young compared to other exoplanets, meaning it's still radiating a significant amount of heat in the infrared spectrum. When this infrared radiation is processed, it gives the planet its distinctive pinkish color in visualizations.
Key Facts about GJ 504 b:
- Discovered: 2013
- Method of Discovery: Infrared data from the Subaru Telescope
- Appearance: Dull magenta or dark cherry blossom color
- Type: Gas Giant
- Reason for Color: Residual heat from formation
NASA's Role
While the discovery wasn't made directly by NASA, NASA often uses data from various telescopes, including the Subaru Telescope, in its exoplanet research and characterization efforts. So, NASA benefits from discoveries like this one and uses it to further understand planetary formation and atmospheric composition.
In conclusion, astronomers, not NASA directly, found GJ 504 b, a gas giant that, due to its residual heat, would appear pinkish-magenta to the human eye.
