Astronomers at the University of California, Irvine have identified a super-Earth located in the habitable zone of a nearby M-dwarf star, just 18 light-years from Earth. This discovery, published on November 23, 2025, suggests the planet could potentially support liquid water, a critical factor for life as we know it.
The newly discovered planet, named GJ 251 c, orbits an M-dwarf star, a common type in the Milky Way Galaxy. These stars are known for their significant stellar activity, which can complicate the detection of orbiting planets. The unique characteristics of GJ 251 c make it a prime candidate for further study using advanced telescopes, such as the Thirty Meter Telescope, currently under development.
Significance of the Discovery
According to co-author Paul Robertson, an associate professor of physics and astronomy at UC Irvine, the proximity of GJ 251 c enhances its value in the ongoing search for extraterrestrial life. “Discovering a new exoplanet is not uncommon at this stage, but finding one so close to us is significant,” he stated. This proximity allows for more detailed observation and analysis than many other exoplanets.
The research team utilized advanced instruments, including the Habitable-zone Planet Finder and NEID, to detect the planetary signals. These precision tools measure the gravitational influence a planet has on its star, revealing periodic shifts in the star’s light, known as radial velocity signatures. These measurements confirmed the presence of GJ 251 c, despite challenges posed by the active nature of its host star.
Future Exploration and Community Investment
The ability to directly image GJ 251 c could provide invaluable insights into its composition and the potential for water. Corey Beard, a data scientist and lead author of the study, emphasized the need for advanced observational capabilities. “The Thirty Meter Telescope will be the only telescope with sufficient resolution to image exoplanets like this one,” Beard remarked.
As the research team continues to refine their methods and instruments, they also call for broader community support. “While our findings are statistically significant, we require the next generation of telescopes to confirm the status of this planet,” Beard noted. Collaboration among the scientific community will be vital as new observatories become operational.
The research team included contributions from experts at several institutions, including Jack Lubin from UCLA and Eric Ford and Suvrath Mahadevan from Pennsylvania State University. It received funding through various grants, including NSF grant AST-2108493 and support from NASA for their exoplanet survey programs.
With the ongoing advancements in telescope technology and collaborative research, the findings on GJ 251 c mark an exciting step forward in the quest to discover life beyond Earth. As scientists continue to explore this intriguing super-Earth, the possibility of finding another habitable world remains on the horizon.
