- In 1995 scientists found a planet outside our solar system.
- The discovery opened a new field of study about other worlds.
- This work later helped win part of the 2019 Nobel Prize.
- Since then researchers have found more than 4,000 exoplanets.
- Some of these exoplanets are Earth-like and may hold life.
- Scientists look for biosignatures, simple signs of life.
- They also search for technosignatures, signs of advanced technology.
- NASA gave a grant to Adam Frank to study them.
Difficult words
- alien — A being from outer space.aliens
- scientist — A person who studies science.scientists
- planet — A large object that orbits a star.planets
- study — To look closely at something.
- sign — An indication or mark for something.signs
- technology — Tools and systems to solve problems.
- topic — A subject or issue for discussion.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think aliens exist? Why or why not?
- What do you find interesting about space?
- How do you think scientists search for life on other planets?
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