Exoplanet KOI-172.02

Object Name: KOI-172.02
Object Type: Exoplanet
Location: Lith, the Netherlands
Date: 26-01-2013
Media: Photoshop CS5

Recently, a new planet is discovered by astronomers affiliated with the Kepler Mission Space Observatory. No big deal you might think. Well, it probably is a big deal because this is not a normal planet. KOI-172.02 (what is the scientific name of the object), is a candidate exoplanet that is a so called Super-Earth.

The planet has a radius of 1.54 times that of the Earth, and orbits a sun-like star, named KOI 172. This is a G-type star which is somewhat cooler than our own sun. KOI-172.02 lies within the habitable zone of his star. A zone where liquid water could exist on the surface of the planet. Scientists claim the exoplanet, if confirmed, could be a prime candidate to host alien life.

Imagine yourself being in a spaceship at approximately 1.040 light years from Earth. You are getting close to the just discovered Super-Earth, and you’ll be the first who will know if this planet contains life or not. Anyway, it will be a unforgettable experience.

Thanks for watching,

Rutger Teule
http://www.rutgerteule.com/