description TRAPPIST-1b Overview
TRAPPIST-1b is an Earth-sized exoplanet orbiting the ultra compact M-dwarf star TRAPPIST-1. Located 39 light-years from Earth, it’s notable as the closest planet to our solar system and one of seven similar-sized planets in a tightly packed arrangement. Scientists study this transiting planet to understand planetary formation around small stars and assess the potential for habitability within such systems. The data is valuable for researchers investigating exoplanets and their atmospheric characteristics.
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How far is the TRAPPIST-1 system from Earth?
The TRAPPIST-1 system, which contains the exoplanet TRAPPIST-1b, is located about 39 light-years away from Earth. In astronomical terms, this is considered a very close neighbor within our Milky Way galaxy.
How many planets are in the TRAPPIST-1 system?
The ultra-cool red dwarf star TRAPPIST-1 is orbited by exactly seven Earth-sized planets. TRAPPIST-1b is the closest of these seven planets to the host star.
What type of star does TRAPPIST-1b orbit?
TRAPPIST-1b orbits an M-dwarf star, which is much smaller, cooler, and redder than our Sun. Because the star is so cool, planets must orbit very closely to have the potential for liquid water.
What telescope was used to discover the TRAPPIST-1 planets?
The initial discovery of planets in the TRAPPIST-1 system was made using the TRAPPIST (Transiting Planets and Planetesimals Small Telescope) in Chile. The findings were later heavily expanded upon by NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope.
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