Scientists claim they can measure the strength of the magnetic field surrounding an exoplanet by observing the solar winds of its star as the winds hit the planet.

This is the first time scientists are able to determine the power of an exoplanet's magnetic field. This method could help provide clues about the planet's evolution and how it formed.

Like Us on Facebook

A magnetic field serves as a shield that protects the planet from solar wind particles unleashed by a star, said study lead author Kristina Kislyakova from the Austrian Academy of Sciences.

Solar winds significantly erode the atmosphere of a planet, that's why it's important to discover if this field is large enough to protect the entire planet.

This exoplanet known as HD 20945b is roughly the size of Jupiter. Scientists have discovered an asymmetrical pattern made from highly charged hydrogen atoms moving rapidly in the opposite direction from the planet. 

The exoplanet's atmosphere is currently being blown away from the planet since its parent star is within close proximity, around one twentieth the distance from the Sun to the Earth.

Scientists generated a 3D simulation model that includes all kinds of interactions among stellar winds and planetary atmosphere, gravitational forces, ionization, wind pressure and radiation acceleration, among others.

The results revealed the exoplanet's magnetic field is about 10 percent as powerful as the magnetic field surrounding Jupiter. Prior studies suggest these types of exoplanets including HD 20945b, are considered "hot Jupiter" planets that are one third larger than Jupiter but with a lighter mass. They are also expected to have magnetic fields weaker than Jupiter.

Kislyakova says these findings imply a better improving understanding of distant worlds light years away from the solar system. This technique in measuring magnetic fields via solar winds passing through exoplanets is quite valuable in studying different star systems that might possess Earth-like planets.

Measuring the atomic hydrogen particles and its interaction with gas emanating from an exoplanet as solar wind hits the atmosphere is pivotal in measuring the size and strength of the planet's magnetosphere.

TagsScientists Discover New Method to Measure Magnetic Fields of Distant Alien Planets, Magnetic Fields, Exoplanets, Jupiter, method technique magnetic fields exoplanets alien planets