James Webb telescope makes first 3D map of an alien planet's atmosphere

Scientists used the James Webb Space Telescope to create the first three-dimensional map of an alien planet's atmosphere, revealing distinct temperature zones on WASP-18b, a gas giant 400 light-years away. Using eclipse mapping techniques with different light wavelengths, researchers discovered a circular hotspot facing the star and a cooler surrounding ring, suggesting atmospheric winds cannot redistribute heat effectively. The breakthrough technique could enable detailed atmospheric studies of many other distant planets.