Influencing International Science Policy

In 2016, researchers from our centre discovered an exoplanet named Proxima b that orbits our nearest star. This planet is the closest exoplanet ever discovered and is located in the habitable zone, which means that liquid water can exist, making it possible for the planet to support life. This discovery had a significant impact on international science policy, prompting the European Southern Observatory to reassess its approach to allocating telescope time and distributing news to the public. Furthermore, the discovery directly inspired private space exploration, leading to the launch of an observational program and spacecraft-based initiative focused on the Proxima Centauri system.

Proxima b also inspired the creation of various cultural artefacts, including documentary films, literature, music, and video games. The discovery engaged a vast, diverse audience with astronomy, as evidenced by the activity on news media websites, social media, and online learning resources.

Artist’s visualisation of Proxima Centauri from the surface of Proxima b. Reprinted from https://www.eso.org/public/images/eso1629a/. Kornmesser. 2016. ESO. Copyright [2016] by ESO.