All of those looking for signs of life in the universe would be delighted to know that astronomers have discovered seven planets of the size of earth, orbiting a nearby star TRAPPIST-1that is only 39 light-years away from earth. Not only this, there are also positive indications regarding the possibility of life on them.
Seven earth-size planets have been found with life potential have been discovered. According to Space.com, they were discovered orbiting a nearby star called TRAPPIST-1, which is at a distance of 39 light-years from earth. As far as the planets are concerned, they are so closely assembled that they at times they appear as glowing crescents while on others like orbs with size double than the full moon.
The finding has been published in the latest issue of the journal "Nature" and Amaury Triausthe, co-author of the study, has said that within a few years they would be able to find more about these planets. Another author Brice-Olivier Demory has also expressed optimism and said that looking for life elsewhere, this system is probably their best bet as of today.
Speaking of system, the TRAPPIST-1 system is now tied with some others systems that have seven planets other than that of the earth's, National Geographic claimed. Also, the discovery of these seven earth-size planets has increased hopes of other similar-size planets being in existence. Natalie Batalha from NASA has said that those who were yawning over yet another discovery of habitable planets may not appreciate the shift in priorities.
She also said that terrestrial-sized planets are relatively common in the galaxy and now researchers have to focus on finding those that are near enough for atmospheric characterization. However, the seven earth-size planets of TRAPPIST-1 were not discovered in few days. It is the result of nearly a year-long work that was done with the help of multiple telescopes based in different parts of the world. Last year, the team of scientists had come up with evidence about three planets orbiting TRAPPIST-1.
