description HD 80606 b Overview
HD 80606 b is a gas giant exoplanet orbiting the star HD 80606, which together with HD 80607 forms a binary star system approximately 190 light-years from Earth. Discovered in 2001 through radial velocity measurements, the planet has one of the most eccentric orbits of any known exoplanet, with an eccentricity of approximately 0.93. This extreme eccentricity produces dramatic temperature variations over the planet's 111-day orbit. HD 80606 b was later observed transiting its host star, enabling further characterization.
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What is unusual about HD 80606 b's orbit?
HD 80606 b has one of the most eccentric known exoplanet orbits. Its path takes it extremely close to and then far away from its host star during each orbit.
When was HD 80606 b discovered?
Astronomers discovered HD 80606 b in 2001 using radial-velocity measurements. The planet orbits HD 80606, one member of a binary system with HD 80607.
How far away is the HD 80606 system?
The HD 80606 and HD 80607 binary system is approximately 190 light-years from Earth. The two stars are gravitationally associated.
What kind of planet is HD 80606 b?
It is a gas giant, often discussed as an extreme eccentric-orbit planet rather than a potentially Earth-like world. Its changing distance from the star produces dramatic changes in heating during an orbit.
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