We Found Water on a Habitable Zone Exoplanet

Two teams discovered water in the atmosphere of exoplanet K2-18b, using Hubble Space Telescope data. This planet, located 110 light-years away, is in its star's habitable zone, raising interest in its potential for life. However, its proximity to a red dwarf star makes it unlikely to support life due to harmful radiation. The discovery highlights the capabilities of current telescopes and the need for future missions like the James Webb Space Telescope. Additionally, a new interstellar object, Borisov, was detected, offering insights into star system formation and the role of amateur astronomers in space discoveries.

What makes the discovery of water on K2-18b particularly interesting?

• The discovery was made using a new telescope.

• The planet is similar in size to Earth.

• The planet is in its star's habitable zone.

• It's the first time water has been found on an exoplanet.

What is one reason K2-18b is unlikely to support life?

• It has no atmosphere.

• It is too far from its star.

• It is too cold for liquid water.

• It is bombarded with harmful radiation.

What is the significance of the discovery of Borisov?

• It is the second known interstellar object to pass through our solar system.

• It is the largest comet ever discovered.

• It provides insight into the formation of our solar system.

• It is the first interstellar object ever found.

How does Borisov differ from 'Oumuamua?

• 'Oumuamua was discovered by a professional astronomer.

• Borisov is orbiting the sun.

• 'Oumuamua was observed for a longer period.

• Borisov is believed to have a gaseous envelope.

What role do amateur astronomers play in space discoveries?

• They only observe objects within our solar system.

• They are not involved in significant discoveries.

• They can make important new discoveries.

• They only confirm discoveries made by professionals.