First atmosphere found on Earth-like planet in habitable zone of distant star
Summary
Scientists have found the first atmosphere on a rocky, Earth-like planet located in the habitable zone of a distant star. This discovery suggests that planets with conditions similar to Earth could exist beyond our solar system.Key Facts
- The planet is named LHS 1140 b and is 48 light-years away from Earth.
- LHS 1140 b orbits a small, cool red star.
- The planet lies in the "habitable zone," meaning it is at the right distance from its star for liquid water to possibly exist.
- Researchers detected helium gas in the planet’s atmosphere, found mostly in the upper atmosphere.
- Helium alone cannot support life, but other life-supporting gases might be present lower in the atmosphere.
- This is the first time an atmosphere has been confirmed on a rocky planet in the habitable zone outside our solar system.
- The discovery brings scientists closer to finding life beyond Earth but does not prove life exists on LHS 1140 b.
- Other planets like K2-18b and the TRAPPIST-1 system are also being studied in the search for life.
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