Hold onto your telescopes, space fans! NASA just dropped a cosmic plot twist: Jupiter isn’t quite the ‘biggest flex’ we thought it was. New data from the Juno mission reveals our solar system’s giant is slightly smaller and more flattened than previous estimates. Think of it like a beach ball gently squished at the poles 🏐.
How Did They Measure a Gas Giant?
Using radio occultation (aka space wizardry 🔮), scientists analyzed signals sent through Jupiter’s atmosphere during 13 close flybys. The result? Jupiter’s equator is 8 km narrower, and its poles are 24 km flatter. ‘Who knew planets could have a midlife crisis?’ joked one researcher.
Why This Matters Beyond Our Solar System
Jupiter’s updated size isn’t just trivia—it’s a key reference for studying giant exoplanets! Accurate measurements help astronomers decode distant worlds as they pass in front of their stars 🌟. Talk about #Goals.
Lead scientist Eli Galanti shared: ‘This wasn’t even part of Juno’s original plan—it’s like finding extra fries at the bottom of the bag!’ 🍟 The mission, launched in 2011, keeps delivering surprises.
