Hot Jupiters
Hot Jupiters are a type of exoplanet that are similar in size to Jupiter but orbit very close to their parent stars. This proximity causes them to have extremely high surface temperatures, often exceeding 1,000 degrees Celsius. They are gas giants, primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, and do not have solid surfaces.
These planets are interesting to astronomers because they challenge traditional theories of planet formation. Many Hot Jupiters are found in orbits that are much shorter than those of planets in our solar system, completing a full orbit in just a few days. Their unique characteristics provide valuable insights into planetary systems beyond our own.