Astronomy
The Thermal Emission and Phase Curves of Hot Jupiters
Quick fact
Hot Jupiters, like HD 189733b, can show temperature differences of over 1,000 °C between their permanent day and night sides, yet some manage to distribute heat surprisingly efficiently. A single observation of a planet's light as it orbits—its phase curve—can reveal this temperature map.
Why this is interesting
We all know the Moon has a dark side, but imagine an entire planet where one side is always scorching and the other always freezing. How would we ever know what that looks like from light-years away?