Space & Astronomy

Distant 'waterworld' is latest planet found around a red dwarf star

By T.K. Randall
November 14, 2026

Image: Extrasolar Planet (illustrative)
Credit: (PD) NASA Ames/JPL-Caltech Move over Kevin Costner - this particular waterworld has nothing at all do with evading Dennis Hopper or drinking recycled urine.

Situated around 40 light years away, this remote 'super-Earth' - which orbits a red dwarf star every 38 hours - is believed to consist of around 75% water.

Although its temperature is likely too hot to support life as we know it, this relatively nearby world was found as part of a new initiative to seek out extrasolar planets around red dwarfs.These relatively cool and dim stars - the most common type found in our galaxy - lend themselves well to planet hunting because it is easier for telescopes to pick up the telltale dimming that occurs when a planet passes in front of them.

In this case, astronomers believe that the new waterworld planet may even have an atmosphere, although it will likely be very hot - a bit like a sauna.

"Since this planet is so close to Earth, Hubble should be able to detect the atmosphere and determine what it's made of," said Dr David Charbonneau of the MEarth Project.

"That will make it the first super-Earth with a confirmed atmosphere - even though that atmosphere probably won't be hospitable to life as we know it."

Source: Mail Online

Tags: Exoplanet