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Science

James Webb to Unravel the Secrets of Fiery Lava Worlds

Lava planets, some the size of Earth, are pushing the limits of our understanding of planetary science. These extreme extremities orbit perilously close to their stars, completing a year in less than a single day. With surface temperatures capable of melting or even vaporizing rock, these worlds present conditions that are unlike anything we see on Earth, Mars, or Venus. But it’s these very challenges that may provide insights into the evolution of rocky planets over billions of years.