Astronomers Discover Earth-Like Planets Orbiting Nearby Star
Scientists have discovered two Earth-like planets orbiting a nearby star, just 40 light-years away.
The planets, designated as TOI 700 d and TOI 700 e, are located in the habitable zone of their star, meaning they could potentially support liquid water on their surfaces.
TOI 700 d is about the size of Earth and has a similar surface temperature. TOI 700 e is slightly smaller than Earth and is located in the outer edge of the habitable zone. Both planets orbit a red dwarf star, which is smaller and cooler than the Sun.
The discovery was made using data from NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), which searches for planets by looking for dips in starlight that could be caused by a planet passing in front of a star. Follow-up observations with the Spitzer Space Telescope and the Gemini Observatory confirmed the presence of the two planets.
The discovery of these Earth-like planets is significant because it provides new insights into the potential for life beyond Earth. The planets are located in a region where liquid water could exist, making them potential candidates for harboring life.
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