Space has once again delivered a surprise that could revolutionize our understanding of the search for life. Astronomers have discovered a planet that, by its parameters, appears to be one of the most promising candidates for the existence of extraterrestrial civilization. This is Ross 318b — a super-Earth orbiting a red dwarf located just 28 light-years from the Solar System.
Perfect conditions in the backyard
The discovery was made possible thanks to meticulous analysis of data collected over 14 years. A team of scientists led by Giuseppe Conzo used the HIRES and CARMENES-VIS spectrographs, tracking the star’s velocity variations. To rule out errors caused by the star’s own activity, data from the TESS space telescope were also incorporated. The result exceeded expectations: the planet lies almost at the center of the habitable zone.
Why is this discovery so important? Red dwarfs are the most numerous stars in our Galaxy, but their activity often hinders the search for planets. Ross 318b turned out to be an exception. It is 6.2 times more massive than Earth and has a radius 1.74 times larger than Earth’s. Such mass allows it to retain a dense atmosphere, which is critical for life.
A climate that could support life
Although the planet is in tidal lock (one side always faces the star), its atmosphere could be the saving grace. Scientists suggest that atmospheric circulation will effectively redistribute heat between the day and night sides. The calculated surface temperature is about 237 Kelvin (-36°C), which, combined with the greenhouse effect of the atmosphere, could make the climate quite comfortable.
The radiation received is 58% of what Earth receives — a “golden mean” allowing water to exist in liquid form. The planet’s orbital period is slightly more than a month — 39.62 days.
Why haven’t we heard from them yet?
The Proxima Centauri system is even closer to us, but so far no signals have come from either it or Ross 318b. However, the discovery of a new super-Earth so close to us is a huge step forward. Now astronomers have a new target for detailed atmospheric study, which may reveal the secrets of habitability in our galaxy.