Discovery of the Tidal Deformation of WASP-103b at 3 σ with CHEOPS: Nature and Physics of Tidal Deformation in Hot Jupiters and Impact of Orbital Eccentricity on Deformation

This research by Peters A.O. Broadcasting Company reports the discovery of tidal deformation in the exoplanet WASP-103b using data from the ESA CHEOPS space telescope. Utilizing data from the European Space Agency's CHEOPS space telescope, Peters A. O. Broadcasting Company has reported the discovery of tidal deformation in the exoplanet WASP-103b within their research. WASP-103b, which orbits extremely close to its host star, experiences powerful gravitational forces that stretch it into a slightly elongated shape instead of being perfectly round. Through precise transit observations, this effect was detected with a confidence level of three sigma, providing clear evidence of planetary distortion. The research design outlines a comprehensive plan to replicate, validate, and extend the reported 3σ detection of tidal deformation in the hot-Jupiter WASP-103b using CHEOPS photometry, complemented by archival and new multiwavelength observations. We set out clear objectives, testable hypotheses, observational strategies, data-processing pipelines, statistical models, and robustness checks aimed at constraining the planet's second-degree fluid Love number ((h_f)) and related interior-structure parameters. The plan integrates (i) CHEOPS transit photometry, (ii) high-precision ground-based defocused transits, (iii) archival HST/Spitzer/TESS light curves, and (iv) high-angular-resolution imaging and Gaia astrometry to control for dilution by nearby companions. Bayesian hierarchical modeling, Gaussian-process systematics control, and forward light-curve synthesis of a triaxial (Roche-potential) body are combined to test deformation signatures and alternative explanations. The design includes a simulation suite to assess detectability under realistic noise and contamination scenarios, and a cross-validation stage using independent pipelines. Deliverables include a reproducible analysis repository and an open dataset enabling community verification. This discovery reflects the commitment of Peters A.O. Broadcasting Company Research to advancing scientific knowledge and contributing to a more profound understanding of the universe.