Kepler-438b facts for kids
Kepler-438b is a planet found outside our Solar System. It orbits a star called Kepler-438, which is a type of star known as a red dwarf. This star is about 470 light-years away from Earth. A light-year is the distance light travels in one year. Kepler-438b is located in the constellation Lyra.
Scientists are very interested in Kepler-438b because it is one of the most Earth-like planets discovered so far. It has an "Earth Similarity Index" score of 0.88. This means it shares many features with our home planet.
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How Kepler-438b Was Found
NASA's Kepler spacecraft discovered Kepler-438b. It used a special method called the transit method.
The Transit Method Explained
The transit method works like this:
- Scientists watch a star very closely.
- If a planet orbits that star and passes directly in front of it, the star's light will dim slightly.
- This dimming is very small, but the Kepler spacecraft is sensitive enough to measure it.
- By watching how much the star dims and for how long, scientists can figure out the size of the planet. They can also learn how long it takes the planet to orbit its star.
Why Kepler-438b is Earth-like
Kepler-438b is considered Earth-like for a few reasons:
- Size: It is only a little bit bigger than Earth.
- Location: It orbits its star in the "habitable zone." This is the area around a star where temperatures might be just right for liquid water to exist on a planet's surface. Liquid water is essential for life as we know it.
The Habitable Zone
The habitable zone is sometimes called the "Goldilocks zone." This is because it's not too hot and not too cold.
- If a planet is too close to its star, water would boil away.
- If it's too far, water would freeze solid.
- In the habitable zone, water could stay liquid, which is important for life.
What We Know About Kepler-438b
Scientists are still learning more about Kepler-438b. Here are some key facts:
- Discovery Date: It was discovered in 2015.
- Star Type: It orbits a red dwarf star. Red dwarfs are smaller and cooler than our Sun.
- Orbit Time: Kepler-438b orbits its star very quickly. One year on Kepler-438b lasts only about 35 Earth days!
- Atmosphere: We don't know yet if Kepler-438b has an atmosphere like Earth's. An atmosphere helps regulate temperature and protect a planet.
Scientists continue to study planets like Kepler-438b. They hope to find out if any of these distant worlds could support life.
