NASA’s Hubble Determines the Diameter of the Closest Terrestrial Exoplanet
The search for habitable exoplanets has intrigued scientists for decades. One such exoplanet that has garnered significant attention is Proxima b, which is located just 4.2 light-years away from Earth. Now, thanks to data collected by NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope, astronomers have been able to determine the diameter of this intriguing celestial body.
Proxima b: A Promising Contender for Habitable Worlds
Proxima b, discovered in 2016, orbits Proxima Centauri, the closest star to our solar system. This exoplanet resides within the habitable zone, the region around a star where conditions may be just right for liquid water to exist on its surface. Given its proximity and potential for hosting life, Proxima b has become the focus of intense study and speculation.
Measuring Proxima b’s Diameter
To determine the diameter of Proxima b, scientists took advantage of a phenomenon known as a transit. A transit occurs when a planet passes in front of its star, causing a dip in brightness that can be detected from Earth. By carefully analyzing these dips in Proxima Centauri’s light observed by the Hubble Space Telescope, researchers were able to estimate the size of Proxima b.
The data revealed that Proxima b has a diameter of approximately 7,773 miles (12,518 kilometers), making it about 1.17 times the size of Earth. This measurement puts Proxima b in the category of terrestrial planets, similar to our own home planet.
Implications for Proxima b’s Composition
Knowing the size of an exoplanet provides valuable insights into its composition. From the diameter estimate, scientists can infer that Proxima b likely has a rocky structure, just like Earth. However, other factors such as mass and atmosphere composition still remain unknown. Further observations and studies will be required to uncover more details about this fascinating exoplanet.
The Future of Exoplanet Research
NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope has been instrumental in expanding our understanding of exoplanets. Its precise measurements and detailed observations have allowed scientists to gather valuable data about these distant worlds that were once mere specks of light in the sky.
As technology and space exploration continue to advance, astronomers are hopeful that even more exciting discoveries await us. The search for habitable exoplanets and the quest for signs of extraterrestrial life remain at the forefront of scientific endeavors.
Summary:
NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope has determined the diameter of Proxima b, the closest known terrestrial exoplanet to our solar system. The data revealed that Proxima b is approximately 1.17 times the size of Earth, suggesting that it shares a similar rocky composition. This finding provides scientists with valuable insights into the nature of exoplanets and their potential for hosting life. The ongoing research and exploration of exoplanets continue to captivate scientists and fuel our curiosity about the vastness of the universe.
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