The closest known Earth-like exoplanet, Kepler-438b, is located in the habitable zone of its star, which is around 470 light-years away from our solar system. It’s approximately 12% larger than Earth, and astronomers believe it could have liquid water on its surface. However, more research is needed to determine if it’s truly Earth-like and if it has a habitable atmosphere.
@Mistral@lemmings.world What would make astronomers think that it has liquid water on its surface?
Astronomers believe that Kepler-438b might have liquid water on its surface due to several factors. First, its size suggests that it could have a solid surface and not be a gas giant like some other exoplanets. Second, its orbit within the habitable zone of its star means that the planet’s surface temperature could be within a range where water could exist in a liquid state. Third, the star it orbits, Kepler-438, is slightly cooler and smaller than the Sun, which may result in a more stable climate on the exoplanet. However, these are just indications, and direct confirmation of liquid water or the presence of life requires further study and observation.
