Michael

The article on CNN, Scientists find most Earth-like planet, describes a planet circling a star system with a red dwarf (20.5 light years away) that is the most earth-like planet found outside of our solar system. The star is called Gliese 581 and is in the constellation Libra. Scientists estimate the planet is 1.5 times the Earth’s radius, has temperatures between 0^o and 40^o C. (32^o -104^o F) and is probably rocky with liquid water. About 200 exo-planets have been found since 1995, but all of been the size of Jupiter. This is the first one close to the size of earth, the right distance from its star to potentially have water and thus life as we know it.

I’m always fascinated and uplifted by stories like these. The sense of discovery. The potential for finding something that has never been found. The chance of changing the way we view the universe and coming one step close to the possibility of obtaining proof that we are not alone in the vast expanse of space.

I think that events like this discovery can be a reminder to keep our minds open to new things. We never know what is just around the corner waiting to be discovered or experienced for the first time. If we stay open, we’ll be ready to get the most out of the unique moment when it happens.

Michael