Exoplanet : Proxima Centauri b - First Exoplanet in exploration list - Space Art Illustration

Proxima Centauri b is a rocky planet located just 4.2 light years from Earth. It is the closest potentially habitable exoplanet ever discovered.

Proxima Centauri is a red dwarf star, much smaller and cooler than the Sun. As a result, Proxima Centauri b receives much less light and heat from its star. Proxima Centauri b's ocean could be much larger than Earth's. This is because the planet receives less light and heat from its star, meaning it needs a larger surface area of water to maintain a high enough temperature for liquid water to exist. The discovery of Proxima Centauri b is an important step in the search for extraterrestrial life. If the planet is indeed habitable, it could be home to an unknown form of life.