A potentially habitable planet discovered in the nearest star system

Astronomers have confirmed the existence of exoplanet HD 20794 d, located just 20 light-years from the Solar System, which may have conditions suitable for life.

The newly discovered planet is approximately six times larger than Earth and orbits in a zone favorable for the existence of liquid water on its surface.

Stable orbit and potential habitability

HD 20794 d orbits a star similar to the Sun, but slightly smaller and older. The mature age of the star may indicate stabilization of the planet's orbit, which increases its potential as a habitable world.

Astrophysicist Michael Cretinier from Oxford University commented: "Confirming the existence of this planet was a great joy for me. The initial signal was very weak, making precise identification difficult. However, its proximity - just 20 light-years - increases the chances for future observations by space missions."

HD 20794 d completes a full orbit around its star in 648 days and is located within the habitable zone. However, its elliptical orbit may lead to significant fluctuations in surface temperature.

The scientific paper about this discovery has been published in Astronomy & Astrophysics journal.