Unlocking the Mysteries of Venus: New Discovery of Molecular Oxygen in the Atmosphere

2023-11-12 14:10:31
Researchers recently discovered that Venus’ harsh, inhospitable atmosphere contains a thin layer of molecular oxygen, even though the air is extremely toxic and hot. Scientists were able to make the discovery with such high precision thanks to the use of the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA), a telescope mounted on NASA’s Boeing 747 aircraft. The German team of astrophysicists made the discovery by studying data received from SOFIA in 17 different locations in the planet’s atmosphere, both day and night. Molecular oxygen has been discovered in all of these locations. It must be taken into account that the molecular oxygen present in the atmosphere of Venus is not similar to the oxygen we breathe on Earth. Molecular oxygen consists of single, unbonded oxygen atoms, which means it is not suitable for breathing. If we tried to breathe it, it would interact with the tissues in our lungs and would not be able to enter the blood circulation. This discovery is considered an important development in the study of Venus, which has received less scientific attention than its neighbor Mars. Thanks to the upcoming missions planned by NASA and the European Space Agency, we will learn more regarding this interesting planet in the near future. Frequently Asked Questions: What is SOFIA? It is an infrared observatory located on board a NASA Boeing 747. What is Molecular oxygen? It is a gas consisting of oxygen atoms that are not bonded together. Can we breathe on Venus? No, because the molecular oxygen present in the atmosphere of Venus is not suitable for breathing. What does the discovery of molecular oxygen in the atmosphere of Venus indicate? The discovery indicates There is still a lot that scientists have to learn regarding this interesting planet. Source: [المصدر الأصلي للخبر](
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