Astronomers always suspected that the Universe must be teeming with other planets that have similar characteristics to the ones on Earth. They also knew that once we find such a planet, we can consider packing our luggage at some point, although it would still be a goal for the far future.
While the search for an “Earth 2.0” planet continues, it’s great that astronomers don’t give up hope. Our planet cannot sustain life forever, whether we like to admit it or not.
China will look for Earth-like planets in the Milky Way
The Chinese Academy of Sciences is preparing for its first search of exoplanets in our Milky Way galaxy, and it aims to focus on locating “Earth 2.0” by 2026 using a satellite, according to Nature.com.
The planet that the astronomers from China will be looking for will also have to be located in the “Goldilocks Zone” of the host star. That star will also have to be similar to our Sun. Astronomers will aim their gears towards the core of the Milky Way galaxy, and there’s no wonder why. That’s the region where most stars exist.
If the exoplanet that the astronomers hope to find proves to have water, that would be great! The presence of water is one of the main requirements for life to exist on the planet as well.
Jian Ge, leader of the Earth 2.0 mission, declared as Nature.com quotes:
Our satellite can essentially conduct a census that identifies exoplanets of different sizes, masses and ages. The mission will provide a good collection of exoplanet samples for future research.
If the plan works, China will launch the first gravitational microlensing telescope that will operate from space.
We can expect China’s detailed plans for exploring exoplanets to arrive soon enough. Stay tuned!
