Science

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NASA has reported that the Kepler space telescope has discovered over 1235 planet revolving around distant suns.  About 4% of them exist in the 'life zone', where life would be possible.   That is, not too hot and not too cold.

Kepler is only looking at a small section of the Milky Way, so what is beyond remains to be discovered. 

NASA representation

The discoveries are a result of looking at the light from the sun like objects as it diminishes.  It's rather like looking at  a spotlight on a distant boat in darkness and somebody swinging a ball in front of the light.  Small and periodic variations in the light determine the planets.

It's an exciting time to be in astronomy.  For more visit NASA's Kepler Site

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Tuesday, February 22, 2011