Friday, March 16, 2012

Current Events 3/14/12

New "Super Earth" Found at Right Distance for Life 

By Rachel Kaufman  

On National Geographic news.  


Scientists now say that they found a planet called GJ 667Cc that might be a possible planet for life. This planet is roughly 4.5 times the mass of Earth, meaning it's bigger. The planet orbits a red dwarf. Astronomers think that the planet's surface is probably rocky. The planet is very dim, but still recieves infrared rays, meaning it absorbs more energy than Earth does. These conditions make it perfect for there to be liquids on it. This might mean there is microscopic life in it. 

These conditions might even make it possible for non-microscopic life, some scientists think. Many universitites and institutes are doing further research into this investigation. 

 

I found this article because the title caught my attention. The title fascinated me because I always find it interesting when scientists and researchers think they might have discovered other life. Even though this was a very interesting and fascinating article, I think it was too short. It might have been good if they added more description about the planet. I love articles like this because I find space very unique and fascinating. I hope they do further research into this planet.

 

 

1 comment:

  1. Tyler this is amazing. Is this star found in our galaxy or near our solar system? How cool that would be if they found non-microscopic life. It is orbiting a red dwarf and is receiving infrared rays which means if it has an atmosphere, it could be warm enough to support life.
    Do you think you will use this idea for your planet project? So, if this planet is 4.5 times as large as Earth, what do you think it's gravitational pull is?

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