Better Than Earth? Kepler's Search for Habitable Planets Pays Off

Planets more hospitable to life than Earth may already have been discovered

Astronomers are now pointing to the possibility that our planet might not represent the pinnacle of habitability after all. Researchers have introduced the concept of superhabitable worlds, planets that in some respects could be even better suited than Earth for life. These worlds might orbit long-lived stars, sit at slightly warmer temperatures, be slightly larger than Earth to maintain plate tectonics longer, and allow for broader habitable zones. For example, a study identified around two doz

Researchers confirm the existence of an exoplanet in the habitable