GJ 1002

GJ 1002, also known as LHS 2, is a nearby red dwarf star. It is located 15.8 light-years (4.8 parsecs) from our Solar System in the constellation Cetus. Because it has an apparent magnitude of 13.8, it is far too faint to see with the naked eye.

This star is similar to Proxima Centauri and has a spectral type of M5.5V. It has only 12% of the mass and 14% of the radius of our Sun, with a temperature of 3,024 K (about 4,984 °F). GJ 1002 is known for having two confirmed exoplanets orbiting around it.

Scientists study stars like GJ 1002 to learn more about the conditions that might support life on planets around small, cool stars. Its low level of magnetic activity and slow rotation make it an interesting object for understanding how molecules behave in space spectrum.

Planetary system

Two planets were found around GJ 1002 in 2022 using a special way of measuring star movements. These planets are about the size of Earth and orbit in the area where liquid water could exist around their star. Even though we can't see these planets passing in front of their star, scientists hope to learn more about their atmospheres with future telescopes.

As of 2023, these planets are among the closest Earth-sized worlds found in the right zone for possible water, coming after Proxima Centauri b, GJ 1061 d, and Teegarden's Star c, but before Wolf 1069 b.