Astronomers Discover Planet Capable of Supporting Life, and it's Very Close to Earth.



"It's not just in our backyard, it's right in our face," lead researcher Professor Steven Vogt said.

The planet is 22 light years away, previously thought to be 20 light years, and is formally known as Gliese 581g, but Professor Vogt told news.com.au that he has since named it after his wife.

"I called it 'Zarmina's world'," Professor Vogt said.

We will see if that particular name sticks or not; I personally prefer Gliese 581g.

While his claims have been previously reported, a new study, released to News.com.au this week, dismisses calls of balderdash by the international science community. 

The study - by astronomers at the University of California, Santa Cruz, and the Carnegie Institution of Washington - shows the planet is twice the size of Earth. It is known as a "super Earth" due to its ability to hold on to its gassy atmosphere, which increases its chances of retaining liquid.

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