NASA Discovers Frozen Earth Twin.. and Warns: It May Be on the Edge of the Habitable Zone

Astronomers have revealed a new rocky planet similar in size to Earth, but it is located near the outer edge of what is known as the habitable zone around its star, receiving less than a third of the heat that reaches Earth. Researchers believe this discovery could contribute to understanding the prevalence of habitable planets in the universe, although the presence of liquid water or life on the surface of this world remains under scientific study.

Earth.. a Rare Model in the Universe

Earth is currently the only known example of life, due to the availability of a set of integrated factors, such as liquid water, a protective atmosphere, stable temperatures, and a magnetic field that shields the planet from harmful radiation. Scientists believe this delicate balance makes Earth a unique and rare model compared to other planets.
However, NASA missions have helped discover dozens of rocky planets outside the solar system, some of which are indeed located within areas that may allow for the presence of liquid water, as reported by Eco Portal and reviewed by Al Arabiya Business.

The Mystery of the Habitable Zone

Scientists focus their research on what is known as the "Goldilocks Zone," which is the ideal distance between a planet and its star, where temperatures are suitable for the presence of liquid water. If a planet is too close to its star, high temperatures may cause water to evaporate, while being too far may freeze it.
Recent astronomical studies have detected several planets located within this zone, enhancing the chances of finding worlds that could support forms of life.

Discovery of the "Frozen Earth Twin"

In the latest discovery, astronomers observed a rocky planet orbiting a cooler and dimmer star than the sun, taking about 355 days to complete a full orbit around its star, a duration close to an Earth year.
Despite its size being similar to Earth, this planet receives significantly less thermal energy, making it a cold world likely to have very low temperatures. However, its orbital position places it near the outer edge of the habitable zone, which has piqued scientists' interest regarding the potential for conditions that allow for the presence of liquid water.

Possibilities of Water or Life

A scientific study published on Science Daily indicates that the likelihood of this planet being within the habitable zone ranges between 40% and 51%. This discovery raises important questions about the possibility of a thick atmosphere that could trap heat, allowing for the presence of water in its liquid state.
Although conclusive evidence is not yet available, researchers affirm that this type of discovery brings scientists one step closer to understanding the prevalence of Earth-like planets, and may eventually contribute to answering one of the greatest scientific questions: Is life a rare phenomenon in the universe, or could it be more widespread than we imagine?