Scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) have discovered a possible giant planet in the habitable zone of the star Alpha Centauri A, located just 4.3 light-years away. This system, which also includes Alpha Centauri B and the red dwarf Proxima Centauri, is the closest star to the Sun and has properties similar to the mass, age, and temperature of the Sun.
The researchers say the planet is about the same mass as Saturn and the same size as Jupiter, making it likely a gas giant and unlikely to support life. If the Earth does exist, its strong gravity could sweep Earth-like planets out of the habitable zone.
The discovery is still being confirmed. If confirmed, it could make history as the most promising planet in the habitable zone of a Sun-like star in our galaxy. It could usher in a new era of extragalactic exploration.
