NASA has found a new planet outside Earth's solar system that is eerily similar to Earth in important aspects.
Scientists say the temperature on the surface of the planet is about 22 Celsius (Just like Earth). Its star is also extremely similar to our Sun, and appears to be nearly identical. It probably has water and land,
and was found in the middle of the habitable zone, making it the best potential target for life.
The discovery was made by NASA's Kepler planet-hunting telescope. This is the first time Kepler confirmed a planet outside Earth's solar system in the habitable zone (not too hot, not too cold).
Twice before astronomers have announced planets found in that zone, but neither was as promising. One was disputed; the other is on the hot edge of the zone. A catalogue of habitable worlds is being compiled by scientists as increasing numbers of "exoplanets" are detected among the stars.
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