Core Insights - NASA has confirmed that the number of exoplanets detected has surpassed 6000, with over 8000 additional candidates awaiting confirmation [2][3] - The discovery of exoplanets is accelerating, with the number increasing significantly from just over 5000 three years ago [3] Group 1: Exoplanet Discovery - The majority of exoplanets are studied indirectly due to their faint light being overshadowed by their parent stars [3] - Direct imaging of exoplanets remains rare, with fewer than 100 successfully captured [3] Group 2: Characteristics of Exoplanets - Exoplanets exhibit a wide variety of characteristics, including rocky planets, gas giants, and water-rich planets, as well as those with extreme conditions [2] - Unique types of exoplanets have been identified, such as those resembling Jupiter but orbiting closer to their stars, and planets with surfaces covered in lava or with densities similar to foam [2] Group 3: Scientific Collaboration - Collaboration within the scientific community is essential for converting candidate exoplanets into confirmed ones [3] - The ongoing increase in confirmed exoplanets provides valuable insights into planetary formation conditions and the potential distribution of Earth-like planets, which is crucial for the search for extraterrestrial life [2]

智通财经6月9日电，在探索宇宙生命奥秘的征程中，科学家再次获得突破性发现。由美国哈佛-史密森 天体物理中心、麻省理工学院及荷兰莱顿大学组成的国际团队，利用天文望远镜阵列，在恒星周围的行 星形成盘内首次检测到罕见的甲醇同位素信号。这一进展为破解生命形成之谜提供了关键钥匙，相关论 文发表于最新一期《天体物理学杂志快报》。 行星诞生地探寻到"生命原料"踪迹 甲醇同位素信号首次测得 ...