⏰ when

When was the first confirmed exoplanet around a Sun-like star discovered?

Quick Answer

In 1995, astronomers announced 51 Pegasi b, the first confirmed exoplanet orbiting a Sun-like star.

The Full Story

The first confirmed exoplanet orbiting a Sun-like star was announced in 1995 by Michel Mayor and Didier Queloz. The planet, 51 Pegasi b, orbits the star 51 Pegasi about 50 light-years away in the constellation Pegasus. Its discovery showed that planets could exist in very close orbits around stars unlike anything in our Solar System. The finding was a turning point in astronomy and later helped transform exoplanet research into a major field.

Key Facts

1.Announced in 1995
2.Planet: 51 Pegasi b
3.Star is about 50 light-years away

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Suggested video title for this topic:

"The discovery that proved planets are everywhere."

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