Gliese 667Cc

Hypothetical image of Gliese 667Cc. Image Credit: NASA
  • distance_icon_project 23 light years
  • RA: 17h 18m, Dec: -34° 59′
  • sun-warm Mag. +10.3 (Gliese 667C star)
  • Southern Hemisphere
  • view Telescope

Gliese 667Cc is an earth-like exoplanet located in the Gliese 667 system, approximately 23 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Scorpius. It was discovered in 2011 and is one of several planets orbiting the red dwarf star Gliese 667C, which is part of a triple star system. Here are some key points about Gliese 667Cc:

Discovery

Gliese 667Cc was discovered using the radial velocity method, which detects the small wobbles induced in a star’s motion by the gravitational pull of orbiting planets. It was detected as part of a study of the Gliese 667 system, which found multiple exoplanets orbiting the star Gliese 667C.

Characteristics

Gliese 667Cc is classified as a super-Earth, with a mass approximately 4.5 times that of Earth. It orbits its host star within the habitable zone, where conditions might be suitable for the existence of liquid water on its surface. Its orbital period is approximately 28.15 days.

An artist’s impression of the Gliese 667 system. Credit: ESO/L. Calçada

Habitability

The discovery of Gliese 667Cc within the habitable zone raised speculation about its potential habitability. Scientists speculate that Gliese 667Cc could possess a thick atmosphere rich in water vapor, carbon dioxide, and possibly other gases. This could create conditions favorable for liquid water, making it potentially habitable. Its location, size, and estimated surface temperature suggested it could have conditions similar to Earth. However, the actual habitability of Gliese 667Cc remains uncertain, and further observations are needed to determine its atmospheric composition and surface characteristics.

Triple Star System

Gliese 667C is part of a triple star system, meaning it has two companion stars, Gliese 667A and Gliese 667B. Gliese 667Cc orbits around Gliese 667C, which is a red dwarf star. The gravitational interactions between the stars in the system can influence the orbits of planets, adding complexity to the dynamics of the planetary system.

This artists impression shows a sunset seen from the super-Earth Gliese 667 Cc. The brightest star in the sky is the red dwarf Gliese 667 C, which is part of a triple star system. The other two more distant stars, Gliese 667 A and B appear in the sky also to the right. Astronomers have estimated that there are tens of billions of such rocky worlds orbiting faint red dwarf stars in the Milky Way alone. Credit: ESO/L. Calçada

Follow-up Observations

Follow-up studies of Gliese 667Cc and the Gliese 667 system have been conducted using various telescopes and instruments to gather more information about the planet and its properties. These observations aim to refine our understanding of the system and its potential for hosting habitable planets.

Visibility

Although the exoplanet is too dim to be observed with amateur telescopes, it’s host star, Gliese 667C has an apparent magnitude of 10.25, making it visible to small/medium-sized telescopes. Telescopes with at least a 4-inch (100mm) aperture should be able to resolve the star, depending on the viewing conditions and light pollution in the area. For most standard binoculars, which usually have lower magnification (e.g., 7×50 or 10×50), Gliese 667C would be too faint to spot.

The star is located in the southern constellation of Scorpius. So for observers in the Southern Hemisphere, Gliese 667C is well-placed for viewing during the winter and spring months (May to September) when it is prominent in the sky.

Gliese 667C in the constellation of Scorpius