New Earth-sized planet found 146 light-years away, near habitable zone

Astronomers have announced the detection of a new, roughly Earth-sized planet located about 146 light-years from our solar system. The discovery, detailed in a study published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, has generated significant interest due to the planet's size and its potential proximity to the habitable zone of its host star, a region where conditions could allow for liquid water.

Planetary Characteristics and Detection Method

The planet, designated HD 137010 b, is estimated to be about 6% larger than Earth and completes an orbit around its Sun-like star roughly every 355 days. An international research team led by Alexander Venner of the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) identified the world by analyzing 2017 data from NASA's Kepler space telescope K2 mission. Notably, the faint signal indicating the planet's presence was initially flagged by participants in a citizen science project.

Potential for Habitability and Future Study

Researchers calculate that HD 137010 b has approximately a 50% chance of orbiting within its star's habitable zone. However, its surface temperature is estimated to be very cold, potentially similar to that of Mars at around -70°C (-94°F). Despite the likely frigid conditions, its relative proximity in galactic terms makes it a prime target for next-generation observatories. Co-author Chelsea Huang of USQ highlighted that the next comparable planet in a habitable zone is much farther away and fainter, underscoring HD 137010 b's observational importance.

Significance for Astronomy and Turkish Scientific Engagement

Lead author Venner noted that future missions, such as NASA's planned Habitable Worlds Observatory, may be capable of directly imaging this distant world. Discoveries like this expand our understanding of planetary systems and the frequency of Earth-analogues in our galactic neighborhood. They also inspire the global scientific community, including researchers and institutions in nations like Türkiye, which is increasingly investing in space sciences and astronomical research as part of its technological advancement goals.