Looking Out for ‘Lookout Hill’
Published: December 10, 2024, 8:43 PM ET
Author: NASA
Pasadena, Calif. – NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory is developing a new mission to study a unique and potentially habitable exoplanet called “Lookout Hill.” Located 11 light-years from Earth in the constellation Hercules, Lookout Hill is a rocky planet just slightly larger than Earth and orbits a Sun-like star.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Lookout Hill is its atmosphere. Scientists believe that it may have a thick atmosphere rich in oxygen, nitrogen, and water vapor. This suggests that the planet could potentially support liquid water on its surface, making it a prime candidate for habitability.
“Lookout Hill is one of the most promising exoplanets we’ve discovered so far,” said Dr. Thomas Zurbuchen, NASA’s associate administrator for science. “Its proximity to Earth and the potential for liquid water on its surface make it a top priority for exploration.”
The mission, called the Lookout Hill Orbiter, will be launched in 2027 and will arrive at the exoplanet in 2032. The orbiter will spend several years studying Lookout Hill’s atmosphere, surface, and magnetic field. It will also search for signs of life, such as methane and other organic molecules.
“The Lookout Hill Orbiter will provide us with unprecedented insights into the habitability of exoplanets,” said Dr. Amy Mainzer, the mission’s principal investigator. “We’re particularly excited about the possibility of finding signs of life on the planet’s surface.”
In addition to its scientific goals, the Lookout Hill Orbiter will also serve as a technology demonstrator for future missions to exoplanets. The mission will test new technologies for autonomous navigation, planetary protection, and data transmission.
“The Lookout Hill Orbiter is a stepping stone on the path to exploring other habitable worlds,” said Zurbuchen. “It’s a mission that will not only expand our knowledge of the universe but also pave the way for future discoveries.”
Looking Out for ‘Lookout Hill’
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