It is the strongest evidence to date. Worlds with conditions similar to those on Earth could exist beyond our solar system. Researchers found a planet with an atmosphere with promising characteristics. It orbits within the habitable zone of a distant star. It is the first atmosphere on a rocky planet. Could it harbor life?
exact distance
The gas detected in the atmosphere is helium. It is true that this could not sustain life. But other gases may also be present. The lead author of the study is scientist Collin Cherubim of Harvard University. He described the discovery as "a great achievement." "This is the first time anyone has found an atmosphere on a rocky planet in the habitable zone of another star."
The planet, called LHS 1140 b, is located 48 light years from Earth. It orbits a red star much smaller and cooler than our Sun. More than 6,000 worlds have been discovered orbiting distant stars. But this finding is significant because it brings us one step closer to one of the greatest achievements of science. The discovery of life in another world. The article is in the magazine Science.
For a planet to support life, it must have water. To do this, it must be at the appropriate distance from its star. Neither too close nor too far. Planetary scientists call it the "Goldilocks zone." It is in honor of the fairy tale girl who was very picky about the temperature of her porridge.
habitable world
There are hundreds of planets in the habitable zones of their respective stars. But only a few dozen are small and rocky, like our own Earth. It is another point in favor of the ability of a planet to host life. But none of them have been found to have an atmosphere. Until now. The discovery of an Earth-like planet outside our solar system and with an atmosphere is remarkable. Is there life beyond Earth or beyond our solar system? The discovery of the first atmosphere on a rocky planet renews this question.
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