Contra
Some of GJ 3378b’s conditions point away from the planet being suitable for sustaining life. The planet’s close orbit around a star may expose it to “intense radiation” that could strip away any atmosphere, though researchers note further observations are needed to be more certain.
Read more White House Helipad Construction Reportedly Starts—But Trump’s Unusually Quiet On Plans
What To Watch For
Whether GJ 3378b is able to maintain an atmosphere despite its radiation threat. Space observation facilities on Earth such as the Giant Magellan Telescope, Extremely Large Telescope and Habitable Worlds Observatory are expected to begin operations in the coming years and could scan GJ 3378b directly for signs of life.
Key Background
GJ 3378b, which has been nicknamed as “Super-Earth” because of signs of a rocky surface and relatively similar atmosphere, was first identified in 2024 orbiting a red dwarf—a small, cool star roughly one-third the size of the sun. Red dwarfs make up around 70% of all stars in the Milky Way and are the most common place to look for life-supporting planets. Paul Robertson, the lead author of the study published Tuesday, said his team’s guiding principle is rooted in a mantra: “follow the water.” He added water is “the one thing every known living thing on Earth needs, so that’s the first thing we look for when trying to find environments that could sustain life.”
Read more Is Taylor Swift’s Wedding Being Set Up? Trucks At MSG Prompt Speculation
Further Reading
Nearby “Super Earth” May Be a Better Candidate for Life Than Previously Thought (McDonald Observatory)
Read more Supreme Court Upholds Bans On Transgender Women In Sports