Scientists discovered a rocky exoplanet with an atmosphere orbiting in a habitable zone, raising new questions about the potential for life.

For the first time, scientists have found a rocky planet with an atmosphere orbiting in a star’s habitable zone. Researchers from Harvard University say the Earth-like world has conditions similar to those on Earth.

The exoplanet, LHS 1140 b, is 48 light-years from Earth. It orbits a red dwarf star at a distance close enough for water to remain liquid, but far enough away that it would not boil.

  • frongt@lemmy.zipEnglish
    91·
    2 days ago

    Researchers are not yet able to determine what the atmosphere is made of.

    Cherubim and his team determined that helium is escaping from the exoplanet’s upper atmosphere.

    So don’t hold your breath waiting to find out if there’s any sign of life.