October 20, 2022
Exoplanets are planets found orbiting stars other than the Sun. The first exoplanets confirmed were PSR 1257 +12 b, c. and d. Since these were found researchers have found over 5,000 planets orbiting other stars. One of the most intriguing planetary systems found so far is the TRAPPIST-1 system. This consists of a small red dwarf star called TRAPPIST-1 and 7 terrestrial planets all within the system’s habitable zone. While not visible from our backyards, this system is found in the constellation Aquarius.
An artist’s interpretation of the TRAPPIST-1 system, which includes the host star and the seven planets found within what is considered to be the habitable zone. Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech