Scientists have discovered a new exoplanet, HD 20794 d, that could potentially support life.
This exciting find comes from a team of researchers, including astronomers from the University of Geneva (UNIGE) and NCCR PlanetS.
A new hope in the search for life
Since the first exoplanet was discovered 30 years ago, astronomers have found more than 7,000 planets outside our solar system.
However, many more remain undiscovered. Scientists are not only searching for these distant worlds but also studying their characteristics to see if life could exist beyond Earth.
One of the latest discoveries, HD 20794 d, is a type of planet called a “super-Earth”—a rocky planet larger than Earth.
It orbits a star similar to our sun and is located just 19.7 light-years away, which is relatively close in space terms.
Why this planet is special
HD 20794 d is particularly interesting because it moves in and out of its star’s habitable zone—the region where temperatures could allow liquid water to exist. Water is essential for life as we know it, making this planet a prime candidate for further study.
However, its orbit is quite unusual. Unlike Earth’s nearly circular path around the Sun, this planet follows an elongated, oval-shaped orbit. This means that during some parts of its journey, it moves closer to its star and warms up, while at other times, it drifts farther away, where conditions may be much colder. If there is water on the planet, it could freeze when the planet moves away from its star and then melt when it gets closer—potentially creating conditions where life could develop.
How was this planet found?
Finding HD 20794 d was not easy. It took over 20 years of observations using some of the most powerful telescopes in the world.
The researchers analyzed vast amounts of data using advanced tools like the ESPRESSO and HARPS instruments.
A special computer algorithm, called YARARA, was developed at UNIGE to remove noise from the data, allowing the team to confirm the existence of the planet.
The discovery of HD 20794 d is a big step forward in understanding exoplanets and their potential for life.
Because this planet is relatively close to Earth and orbits a bright star, it is a perfect target for future telescopes. Scientists will use advanced technology, such as the upcoming Extremely Large Telescope (ELT), to study the planet’s atmosphere and look for signs of life.
While we don’t yet know if HD 20794 d is home to life, this discovery brings us one step closer to answering one of humanity’s greatest questions: Are we alone in the universe?
Scientists at UNIGE’s new Center for Life in the Universe (CVU) are already studying this planet’s conditions and habitability.
More research is needed, but with each discovery, we are unlocking the mysteries of space and getting closer to finding out if life exists beyond Earth.
Source: University of Geneva.
