Astronomers have unveiled exciting new details about Gliese 12 b, an Earth-sized planet orbiting a quiet red dwarf star just 40 light-years from our solar system. Located in its star’s habitable zone, Gliese 12 b may have conditions suitable for liquid water and possibly even life.
First discovered in May 2024 using NASA’s TESS and ESA’s CHEOPS satellites, the planet’s characteristics have now been refined with precise mass measurements. Gliese 12 b is slightly smaller than Earth, similar in size to Venus, and orbits its host star, Gliese 12, every 12.8 days. Its surface temperature is estimated at 42°C (107°F), warm enough for water but not as extreme as Venus.
What makes Gliese 12 b special is its “Goldilocks” position: it is neither too hot nor too cold, and its star is relatively calm, avoiding the violent flares common to many red dwarfs. “This planet is like a cosmic laboratory for studying the atmospheres of rocky worlds,” said Dr. Shishir Dholakia, lead author of the discovery study.
Recent 2025 observations using instruments such as HARPS-N, ESPRESSO, and CARMENES estimate the planet’s mass at 3.87 times that of Earth, classifying it as a “super-Earth.” Its dense rocky composition and likely iron core could support geological activity, a key factor for habitability.
Gliese 12 b passes in front of its star from Earth’s perspective, making it ideal for atmospheric studies. Future telescopes, including the James Webb Space Telescope, may detect molecules like water vapor, carbon dioxide, or even potential biosignatures.
While no life has been found yet, Gliese 12 b is considered a prime target for research. Its proximity and stable star make it a promising candidate for answering one of astronomy’s biggest questions: Are we alone in the universe?
Key Facts: Gliese 12 b
- Distance from Earth: 40 light-years
- Size: ~0.96 Earth radii (Venus-like)
- Mass: 3.87 Earth masses
- Orbital Period: 12.8 days
- Temperature: ~42°C (107°F)
- Star Type: Cool red dwarf (M-dwarf)
- Discovery: TESS, CHEOPS; mass via HARPS-N/ESPRESSO/CARMENES
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