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First atmosphere found on Earth-like planet in habitable zone of distant star
Researchers have found the first atmosphere surrounding an Earth-like, rocky planet orbiting within the habitable zone of a distant star.
The researchers say that their discovery provides the strongest evidence yet that worlds with conditions similar to Earth could exist beyond our solar system.
The gas detected in the atmosphere is helium, which would not be able to support life, but other gasses may also be present.
The lead author, Dr Collin Cherubim of Harvard University, described the discovery as "a big deal".
"This is the first time anyone has found an atmosphere on a rocky planet in the habitable zone of another star."
Earth-like exoplanet found to have an atmosphere
Scientists discover the first confirmed atmosphere around rocky planet outside our solar system that is within the habitable zone
The search for life outside our solar system has taken another twist as researchers revealed they have discovered an atmosphere around an Earth-like planet 49 light years away that could have liquid water on its surface.
Atmospheres have previously been found around gas giant exoplanets as well as “sub-Neptunes”. There have also been signs of such envelopes around rocky exoplanets that sit outside their star’s habitable zone – a region in which liquid water could exist on the planet’s surface, and hence potentially support life.
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Astronomers discover 1st atmosphere around a rocky Earth-like planet in the habitable zone
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"It's in the habitable zone, which is super exciting for astrobiology and habitability and searching for life."
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