phys.org·May 12, 2026
Researchers from the University of California Riverside have determined that planets slightly smaller than Earth are likely the smallest size capable of retaining an atmosphere and supporting life, which is crucial for narrowing the search for habitable exoplanets.
The recent preprint by researchers at the University of California Riverside highlights a pivotal finding for the search for habitable exoplanets: a planet must be at least slightly smaller than Earth to hold an atmosphere conducive to life. This insight can refine the criteria for prioritizing telescope time, ensuring that observational resources focus on the most promising exoplanet candidates for habitability studies.