description Ross 128 b Overview
Ross 128 b is a near-Earth-mass exoplanet orbiting the red dwarf star Ross 128, located approximately 11 light-years from Earth. Discovered in 2017 by a team led by Xavier Bonfils using the HARPS spectrograph, it orbits within the habitable zone of its host star. Astronomers consider it a prime target for atmospheric characterization with future telescopes, as its host star is relatively inactive, reducing the likelihood of atmospheric stripping by stellar flares.
help Ross 128 b FAQ
How far away is Ross 128 b?
Ross 128 b is located approximately 11 light-years away from Earth, making it a relatively close planetary neighbor in galactic terms. It orbits a red dwarf star in the constellation of Virgo.
Could Ross 128 b support life?
Astronomers consider Ross 128 b to be a highly promising candidate for potential habitability because it orbits within the habitable zone of its host star. Its Earth-like surface temperatures and the relatively calm magnetic environment of its host red dwarf increase the chances of liquid water existing on the surface.
What instrument was used to discover Ross 128 b?
The exoplanet was discovered in 2017 by a team of astronomers using the High Accuracy Radial velocity Planet Searcher (HARPS) spectrograph. HARPS is a dedicated planet-hunting instrument attached to the European Southern Observatory's 3.6-meter telescope in Chile.
How long does it take Ross 128 b to orbit its star?
Ross 128 b has an orbital period of approximately 9.9 Earth days. Because the host star is a dim red dwarf, this close orbit still allows the planet to sit within the star's habitable zone without being completely scorched.
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