In a groundbreaking discovery, a research team led by Shishir Dholakia, a PhD student at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) Centre for Astrophysics, has identified Gliese 12 b, a planet located just 40 light-years away. This newly discovered planet, named Gliese 12 b, is a celestial body that falls between the sizes of Earth and Venus.
Driven by his passion for astrophotography, Mr. Dholakia embarked on this endeavor and was thrilled to stumble upon what he described as a “Eureka moment.” Reflecting on his journey, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn from experienced astronomers and equally thrilled to share the knowledge and expertise of UniSQ with the rest of the world.
To confirm their initial findings, Mr. Dholakia and his team sought additional data and enlisted the resources of UniSQ’s Mt Kent Observatory and the European Space Agency’s CHEOPS satellite. Collaborating with Larissa Palethorpe, a PhD student from the University of Edinburgh, and NASA researchers, they conducted further investigations, ultimately confirming Gliese 12 b as Earth-sized and temperate.
The significance of Gliese 12 b lies in its potential habitability. With similar dimensions to Earth and Venus, this planet could bridge the gap between these two divergent worlds. Gliese 12 b may have the right temperature to support liquid water, a crucial component for life as we currently understand it.
Situated a mere 40 light-years away, Gliese 12 b stands as one of the closest potentially habitable planets to Earth. Its close proximity allows astronomers to observe and study it more effectively using powerful space telescopes. Gliese 12, the star the planet orbits, is a cool red dwarf located in the Pisces constellation, with approximately 27% of the Sun’s size and 60% of its surface temperature.
The discovery of Gliese 12 b marks an important milestone in the ongoing quest for habitable exoplanets. By exploring a planet that lies between the contrasting conditions of Earth and Venus, scientists hope to gain a deeper understanding of why these two planets turned out so differently. This achievement also highlights the collaborative spirit of the global scientific community, as researchers from various institutions and organizations work together to advance our knowledge of the universe.
As we continue to push the boundaries of exploration, Gliese 12 b offers a tantalizing glimpse into the possibility of finding habitable worlds beyond our own. With further observations and advancements in technology, we may finally unlock the secrets of exoplanets and discover whether they harbor the conditions necessary to sustain life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Gliese 12 b:
1. What is Gliese 12 b?
Gliese 12 b is a newly discovered planet located just 40 light-years away. It falls in size between Earth and Venus.
2. Who led the research team that discovered Gliese 12 b?
The research team was led by Shishir Dholakia, a PhD student at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) Centre for Astrophysics.
3. How was Gliese 12 b confirmed as Earth-sized and temperate?
To confirm their initial findings, Mr. Dholakia’s team sought additional data and collaborated with UniSQ’s Mt Kent Observatory, the European Space Agency’s CHEOPS satellite, Larissa Palethorpe from the University of Edinburgh, and NASA researchers.
4. What is significant about Gliese 12 b?
Gliese 12 b has similar dimensions to Earth and Venus, making it potentially habitable. It may have the right temperature to support liquid water, a crucial component for life as we know it.
5. How close is Gliese 12 b to Earth?
Gliese 12 b is located just 40 light-years away, making it one of the closest potentially habitable planets to Earth.
6. What is Gliese 12?
Gliese 12 is the star that the planet Gliese 12 b orbits. It is a cool red dwarf located in the Pisces constellation, approximately 27% of the Sun’s size and 60% of its surface temperature.
7. Why is the discovery of Gliese 12 b important?
The discovery of Gliese 12 b is significant in the ongoing search for habitable exoplanets. It offers a chance to study a planet that lies between Earth and Venus, providing insights into why these two planets evolved so differently.
8. What does the discovery of Gliese 12 b highlight?
The discovery of Gliese 12 b highlights the collaborative spirit of the global scientific community, with researchers from different institutions and organizations working together to advance our understanding of the universe.
9. What does Gliese 12 b suggest about the possibility of habitable worlds beyond our own?
Gliese 12 b offers a glimpse into the possibility of finding habitable worlds beyond our own. With further observations and technological advancements, scientists hope to unlock the secrets of exoplanets and determine if they can sustain life.
Key Terms and Jargon:
– Exoplanets: Planets that orbit stars outside of our solar system.
– Red dwarf: A small, relatively cool star that has a reddish appearance.
– Astrophotography: The practice of photographing celestial objects and phenomena in the universe.
For more information on exoplanets and space exploration, you may visit the NASA website.