<ul><li>The James Webb Space Telescope is uncovering details about sub-Neptune exoplanets for the first time, which are smaller than ice giants like Neptune but with a gas composition similar to Saturn or Jupiter.</li><li>Astronomers used Webb to study the sub-Neptune planet TOI-421 b, known for its extreme heat of around 1,340 degrees Fahrenheit, making it easier to observe due to the lack of haze in its atmosphere.</li><li>The researchers found water vapor and large amounts of hydrogen in the planet's atmosphere, as well as carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide, but surprisingly no methane or carbon dioxide, leading to questions about the planet's formation and uniqueness.</li><li>This study opens up new possibilities for studying sub-Neptunes and accelerating our understanding of these planets, with the hope to observe more to unlock further insights. The research is published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.</li></ul>

James Webb hunts for a haze-less exoplanet to answer longstanding mystery

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