Astronomers Discover Earth-Sized Exoplanet Candidate, HD 137010 b, Potentially Colder Than Mars
Astronomers have identified a new exoplanet candidate, HD 137010 b, that shares similarities with Earth in size and orbital period, but is predicted to be significantly colder than Mars. The discovery, made through analysis of data from NASA’s retired Kepler Space Telescope, offers a new target in the ongoing search for potentially habitable worlds beyond our solar system.
Discovery and Characteristics of HD 137010 b
The potential planet, HD 137010 b, is a rocky world approximately 6% larger than Earth [NASA]. Located about 146 light-years away, it orbits a Sun-like star, HD 137010, which is cooler and dimmer than our Sun [NASA]. The planet’s orbital period is around 355 days, comparable to Earth’s year [NASA].
Habitability and Temperature
Despite being located within the habitable zone of its star, HD 137010 b resides on the outer edge, receiving only about one-third of the heat that Earth receives from the Sun [NASA]. This results in an estimated surface temperature no higher than minus 90 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 68 degrees Celsius), comparable to, or even colder than, the average temperature on Mars, which is around minus 85 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 65 degrees Celsius) [NASA]. These conditions suggest the planet could be a giant ice world or a permanently frozen “super snowball.”
Detection Method and Ongoing Research
The signal indicating the presence of HD 137010 b was initially detected by an international team led by Alexander Venner, now a postdoctoral researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy, with assistance from volunteers participating in the Planet Hunters citizen science project [EOS]. The team employed the transit method, observing a slight dimming of the star’s light as the planet passed in front of it [EOS]. This detection was based on a single transit event observed during Kepler’s second mission [EOS].
Future Observations and Significance
Currently classified as a candidate, HD 137010 b requires further observation to confirm its planetary status. Its long orbital period makes transit events rare, posing a challenge for astronomers [NASA]. If confirmed, this exoplanet will become a high-priority target for future missions utilizing telescopes like TESS or CHEOPS [NASA]. The discovery highlights the continued value of data from retired missions like Kepler and offers hope in the search for potentially habitable worlds beyond our solar system [NASA Exoplanet Archive].
Key Facts about HD 137010 b
- Size: Approximately 6% larger than Earth
- Orbital Period: Around 355 days
- Distance: 146 light-years from Earth
- Estimated Temperature: No higher than -90°F (-68°C)
- Detection Method: Transit method using Kepler Space Telescope data