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Earth-Size Planet Found Just 146 Light-Years Away
29 Jan
Summary
- An Earth-sized planet, HD 137010 b, is located 146 light-years away.
- The planet has a 50% chance of being in its star's habitable zone.
- It was discovered using data from Nasa's Kepler space telescope.
An Earth-sized exoplanet, designated HD 137010 b, has been discovered approximately 146 light-years away. This planet, estimated to be 6% larger than Earth, orbits a sun-like star and has an orbital period similar to our own planet's, lasting about 355 days.
An international team of scientists utilized data from NASA's Kepler space telescope's K2 mission to identify HD 137010 b. Researchers suggest there is a 50% probability that the planet resides within its star's habitable zone, the region where liquid water could exist on its surface.
While the discovery is exciting, further observations are needed to confirm its status as an exoplanet. The proximity of its star means HD 137010 b is a prime target for future telescope observations. Its star is cooler and dimmer than our sun, suggesting the planet's surface temperature might be similar to Mars, potentially below -70 degrees Celsius.
