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New Super-Earth Discovered in Habitable Zone

Astronomers have identified a Super-Earth and a potential Earth-sized planet orbiting a red dwarf star, sparking interest in their habitability.

  • Astronomers have discovered a Super-Earth, named TOI-715b, orbiting an M-dwarf star approximately 137 light-years away, within the star's conservative habitable zone.
  • TOI-715b, with a radius of 1.55 Earth's, lies within a notable gap in the small planet population, offering insights into planetary formation and mass loss.
  • An Earth-sized planet also orbits the red dwarf, pending confirmation, which could be the smallest habitable zone planet found by TESS.
  • The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is anticipated to provide detailed atmospheric characterization, marking a significant step forward in exoplanet research.
  • The discovery fuels speculation on the habitability of these planets, considering factors like stellar activity, atmospheric conditions, and the potential for liquid water.
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