The Kepler mission
Have you ever asked yourself whether there is life in the universe? You've most probably had. Or perhaps we are alone in the vastness of space? Well believe me, you're not the only one pondering about this. While we, simple citizens, are restricted to simply thinking, our researchers put millions of dollars into space research. One of the latest NASA's creations is the Kepler telescope.
Kepler's main mission is to identify planets that would seem to be habitable. Which means planets, that have a sign of water on them. And they should be of similar proximity to their star as Earth to Sun. These are the two main points, as the correct position may indicate a climate, also similar to Earth's. Which, in turn, could very well mean extraterrestrial life.
But Kepler will not be looking for life. Instead, the telescope will determine the frequency of Earth-like planets in space. Since no definite data can be collected at this distance, scientists will have to use simple logic in order to determine whether there is life elsewhere. If there are many Earth-like planets, the chances of life are higher, and the other way around.
And how exactly does the Kepler telescope work? As you know, the distances are far too great to actually see something particular. Well, the telescope is designed to notice changes of light, dimming, to be more exact. As the planets move around their star, they are bound to get between it and the telescope. Similarly to a solar eclipse. Even if we wouldn't know of the moon, when it would get in between and block all light, we would notice it. So when this eclipse happens in the observed solar system, Kepler will immediately notice it and determine the distance between the star and the planet.
However, the Kepler telescope will need to observe these planets for years to confirm their presence. The mission is set for 3.5 years. For more information and a launch date, visit the NASA Kepler homepage http://kepler.nasa.gov/. Space exploration continues!