Astronomers have confirmed the existence of extra-solar planets similar to Earth. The planet Kepler 22 -b, as well as the Earth is in the so -called ' habitable zone ' of its star.
Planet - double of almost 2.5 times greater than Earth's and is located at a distance of 600 light years away. However, for this is the nearest planet Earth -twin. The average temperature on this planet is 22 degrees Celsius.
Scientists have not yet found out what Kepler is mainly 22 -b - hardwood, gas or liquid.
A group of scientists of NASA, discovers Earth-like planets, said that 1094 has already found new possible candidates for the counterparts of our planet.
In total, according to scientists, there are now 2326 of these ' candidates ', 207 of which are approximately the size of the Earth. The sizes of some of the candidates, however, exceed the earth 4 times.
Back in February, these candidates were only 54, they were all outside our solar system and formally fall into the ' habitable zone ' of its star. After some clarification of limits ' habitable zone ' six candidates were rejected, and the number of possible twins decreased to 48.
Astronomers believe that soon there will be confirmed and the other twin of the Earth.
' Kepler ' - NASA astronomy satellite, equipped with very sensitive measuring equipment and telescope. It is designed to find planets like Earth, and beyond solar system.
The presence of a planet's star is set to periodic changes in its brightness caused by planets passing in front of a star. In the telescope, ' Kepler ' we can consider the order of 150 000 stars.
As established by astronomers, the planet Kepler 22 -b is closer to its star than Earth. The distance from the planet - star counterpart to approximately 15 % less than the distance from Earth to the Sun. Year on this planet is equal to 290 days. And at the same time, Kepler 22 -b receives from its star is 25% less light than the Earth. This explains the ' mild climate ' on the planet.
A team of scientists observed the planet during its three passes past the stars before to confirm its status as a ' double '.
According to William Boruca from NASA research center, his team was lucky to find a planet.
' The first observation we were able to produce just three days after the announcement that our spacecraft is ready to work ' - said the scientist.
The results of the observations were announced at the conference, which opened on Monday.
When scientists confirm the status of the candidates, the search for extraterrestrial life will be more focused and aiming.
' For the first time we can devote their telescopes at the stars, knowing that they have their own planetary system, and at least one of the planets like Earth and within the ' habitable zone ' of its stars ' - the director of the center of the search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence .
Discuss.
No comments:
Post a Comment