Earth-like Planets – Not Yet
I’ve been seeing reports of the Earth-like planets discovered by Kepler and perhaps you have too.
The following press release was issued form the Ames Study Center:
The following NASA statement was sent to Dr. S. Pete Worden, Director, NASA Ames Study Center from the Kepler Science Council on Aug. 2, 2010.
“Recently there have been reports to the effect that Kepler has discovered quite a few Earth-like planets. This is not the case. Analysis from the current Kepler data does not support the assertion that Kepler has observed any Earth-like planets.
Kepler is producing exceptional results and is on a path to achieving all its mission requirements and really determining the frequency of Earth-size planets, especially in habitable zones. We will announce our outcomes when they turn out to be accessible and are confirmed.”
Signed,
Edward W. Dunham, Kepler Science Team Lead
Thomas N. Gautier, Kepler Project Scientist
William J. Borucki, Kepler Principal Investigator
for the Kepler Science Council
