A team of astronomers has made the exciting discovery of four tiny, rocky exoplanets orbiting Barnard’s Star, the second-closest star system to Earth. The planets are believed to be about 20% to 30% the size of our planet and circle their home star in just a matter of days.
Researchers used advanced telescope technology, including MAROON-X and ESPRESSO, to detect the subtle shifts in Barnard’s Star’s movement caused by the gravitational pull of the four planets. The team is confident that their findings are accurate, as they combined data from both instruments to rule out any anomalies.
The newly discovered worlds are unlikely to be habitable due to their proximity to the star and the intense heat generated by their close orbit. However, future human generations may be able to visit these planets using advanced rocket propulsion technology, such as nuclear fusion engines or light sails.
This discovery is significant because it suggests that small, rocky planets could be abundant around red dwarf stars, which are the most common type of star in the universe. The finding also provides a new target for future missions and further research into exoplanet systems.
Astronomers are thrilled with this discovery, as it represents a major breakthrough in understanding our cosmic neighborhood. With continued advancements in telescope technology and rocket propulsion, scientists hope to explore and potentially colonize these newly discovered planets in the coming years.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/space/exoplanets/4-tiny-earth-like-planets-found-circling-2nd-closest-star-system-to-us-and-could-be-visited-by-future-human-generations