Kepler-289 b orbits its star, Kepler-289, far out in the cosmic neighborhood discovered by the Kepler space telescope back in 2014. This exoplanet was spotted using the transit method—meaning scientists watched it pass in front of its star, casting a tiny shadow that revealed its presence. Though we don’t know its proper name, Kepler-289 b adds to the fascinating family of planets found by the diligent Kepler CCD Array, a clever set of eyes scanning the starry skies for hidden worlds. While we can’t yet say if it’s a cozy place for life or just a stunning celestial body, it reminds us that there’s a whole universe full of planets waiting for curious Earthlings to discover.
