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Press Release

Release No.: 2007-03For Release: Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Absence of Water in Distant Planet's Atmosphere Surprises Astronomers
HD 189733b
Astronomers have measured the first-ever infrared spectrum of two planets orbiting distant Sun-like stars. The planet HD 189733b, shown here in an artist's rendering, appears to be missing common molecules like water and methane. Astronomers speculate that these molecules are present but hidden behind a high layer of silicate clouds.
Credit: David A. Aguilar (CfA)
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