Hubble Telescope Observes Planet's Atmosphere Vanishing in Space

Astronomers have observed the Neptune-sized exoplanet, AU Microscopii b, losing its atmosphere in a variable and unpredictable manner due to flares from its young and unstable red dwarf star. This unusual atmospheric loss raises questions about the survivability and habitability of planets close to red dwarfs. The hydrogen atmosphere of AU Microscopii b is being photoionized by the star's extreme heat and flare activity, causing it to be transparent to light and undetectable at times. Further observations are needed to understand the mechanisms behind this atmospheric loss and its implications for similar planets.