Astronomers recently found an intriguing exoplanet, HD 137010 b, that may offer a glimpse into what a distant Earth-like paradise could look like. However, there’s a chance it might be an icy wasteland, colder than Mars and unable to support life.
This potential new planet orbits a Sun-like star and is almost the same size as Earth, completing its orbit in about 355 days. What makes it particularly appealing is that it’s located only about 150 light-years from our solar system. Chelsea Huang, a researcher at the University of Southern Queensland, emphasizes how exciting this find is, as another planet in a similar zone is four times farther away and much dimmer.
The discovery came from data collected by NASA’s Kepler space telescope in 2017, which captured a single event when the planet passed in front of its star, causing a brief dimming of light. This observation provided enough data to estimate the planet’s size and speed.
A major difference between our solar system and this candidate planet lies in the type of star it orbits. Our Sun is a G-type yellow dwarf, whereas HD 137010 revolves around a cooler, smaller K-type orange dwarf. Consequently, the exoplanet likely receives significantly less light and heat—less than a third of what Earth gets—resulting in estimated average temperatures below minus 90 degrees Fahrenheit. To put that in context, Mars averages around minus 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Experts have mixed opinions on whether planets around smaller stars are suitable for life. One concern is that planets in these orbits may become “tidally locked,” meaning one side always faces the star while the other remains in perpetual darkness. This could affect climate and habitability. However, if HD 137010 b has a thicker atmosphere rich in carbon dioxide, it might trap more heat, potentially creating a more hospitable environment.
Interestingly, Mars was once thought to have a warmer, wetter past, similar to what HD 137010 b might offer if conditions are right. Follow-up observations will be essential to further understand this new candidate. According to astrophysicist Sara Webb from Swinburne University, more verification is needed—particularly multiple transits—before solid conclusions can be drawn. Nevertheless, Huang argues that the discovery serves as a “textbook example” of planetary transit, given the star’s proximity and brightness.
This find fuels the ongoing quest to explore our universe. With increasing advancements in technology and research, we may uncover more planets like HD 137010 b. Each discovery adds to our understanding of what lies beyond Earth.
For further reading on exoplanets, check out NASA’s insights on the subject here.
