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New research shows Uranus is leaking more heat

Uranus emits 12.5% more heat than it receives from the Sun, surprising scientists.

July 16, 2025 at 11:00 AM
blur Uranus is hotter and leakier than we realised

New research shows that Uranus leaks more heat than it receives from the Sun.

Discoveries reveal Uranus heats from within

Recent research published in Geophysical Research Letters highlights that Uranus, the icy gas giant, emits more heat than it gets from the Sun. The findings come from a study led by Dr. Xinyue Wang from the University of Houston, who analyzed archived data that shows Uranus radiates 12.5% more heat than it receives. Unlike other outer planets, Uranus was previously thought to have low internal heat, leading to its unique status among solar bodies. Questions remain about its atmospheric changes and seasonal energy patterns, which show inconsistency compared to other giants in the solar system.

Key Takeaways

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Uranus leaks more heat than it receives from the Sun.
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The planet emits 12.5% more heat than previously thought.
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Study changes understanding of Uranus compared to other gas giants.
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Questions remain about Uranus's internal structure and evolution.
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Research suggests seasonal changes affect Uranus's energy levels.
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Findings may provide insights into Earth's atmospheric challenges.

"From a scientific perspective, this study helps us better understand Uranus and other giant planets."

Dr. Wang emphasizes the importance of the findings for planetary science.

"By uncovering how Uranus stores and loses heat, we gain valuable insights into planetary atmospheres."

Professor Li highlights the broader implications of the research for climate science.

This new understanding of Uranus could challenge long-held views about giant planets. While Jupiter and Saturn generate internal heat through gravitational compression, Uranus's heating process remains unclear, indicating it may have a different interior structure. These findings not only reshape our view of Uranus but may also inform our understanding of atmospheric systems on Earth, especially in light of climate change concerns. As researchers push for more exploration of Uranus, we may discover even more about the forces that shape our solar system.

Highlights

  • Uranus is more than just a cold planet.
  • This discovery changes everything we think about gas giants.
  • Uranus may be hiding secrets we have yet to uncover.
  • Understanding Uranus sheds light on our own climate.

Potential for public skepticism on space funding

With Uranus showing unexpected thermal emissions, there could be public debate about funding for further explorations and research on less understood planetary systems.

The mysteries surrounding Uranus may lead to deeper understandings of our own planet's climate.

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