Astronomy: Exoplanets, planets at other stars

Other stars and orbiting exoplanets are interesting. What is the lifecycle of a star system? Are planets common in the Universe? Is life present on exoplanets? We have more questions than answers, and measurements to help answer the questions must be made over enormous distances. In time we will be able to observe more and progress in puzzeling on mysteries of today.

>> First exoplanet, slightly bigger than Earth discovered in star system Gliese 581 (at 20.5 light years)
>> Three Neptune mass exoplanets at HD 69830 (nearby at 41 light years)
>> First confirmed picture of an Exoplanet: 2M1207

Artist impression of exoplanets in the HD 69830 system

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