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Possible Earth II Found


As recently as 1995, we had no evidence that planets existed around other stars. It was just a logical assumption that extra-solar planets must exist. Since then, we have found hundreds of planets orbiting other stars, most of them gas giants like Jupiter. But recently a smaller planet has been found orbiting Gliese 581 about 20 light-years away. What makes this planet even more interesting is that it orbits its ref dwarf parent star at a distance that scientist theorize could allow for a temperate climate. The planet's surface temperatures are estimated at between 0 and 40 degrees Celsius which is warm enough to support liquid water.

The planet has roughly five times the mass of the earth, making it the smallest planet found outside our solar system. Astronomers believe that the planet is either very rocky or completely covered in oceans. While there is no direct evidence as to the make up of the atmosphere or even if liquid water is actually present on the surface, the mere possibility is exciting since water is essential for life (as we know it) to thrive. This is the third planet found orbiting Gliese 581.

From Bad Astronomy via Slashdot

Tags: astronomy, planet

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