# The Search for Another Earth-Like Planet Takes a Major Leap Astronomers discover the atmosphere of a potentially habitable planet. - **Source:** [Science Latest](https://brifing.si/source/ebc20f22-8d1a-4ae4-ba4c-efcd0853ba19) - **Published:** 2026-07-19 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/5811179c-8f0d-404b-8863-bd84a2f07c4b ## Discovery of a Habitable Planet Astronomers have confirmed the atmosphere of an Earth-like planet for the first time. LHS 1140 b, located in the habitable zone, has the potential to hold liquid water on its surface. ## The Importance of Atmosphere An atmosphere is crucial for a planet to support life. It preserves liquid water, stabilizes climate, and shields against harmful space radiation. The atmosphere of LHS 1140 b is a groundbreaking discovery. ## Helium Leak Researchers detected helium leaking from the planet, confirming the presence of an atmosphere. This leak suggests the atmosphere has existed for at least 3 billion years. ## Planet's Composition LHS 1140 b has a rocky structure and is positioned at a distance from its star that allows liquid water. However, its atmosphere is believed to be different from Earth's. ## Future Research Scientists plan to use advanced tools to study the planet's atmosphere in greater detail. This will help determine if there are oceans on its surface. ## A Milestone in Astronomy This discovery marks a significant milestone in astronomy, proving the existence of Earth-like planets and their potential habitability. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.wired.com/story/search-for-earth-like-planet-step-forward/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._