Astronomers have discovered a potentially habitable new planet about 146 light-years away which is Earth-sized and has conditions similar to Mars. The candidate planet, named HD 137010 b, orbits a sun-like star and is estimated to be 6% larger than Earth. The researchers believe the planet has “about a 50% chance of residing in the habitable zone” of the star it orbits. Photograph: UniSQ/University of Southern QueenslandHD 137010 b was spotted when it briefly crossed in front of its star, resulting in a minute dimming event. View image in fullscreen A size comparison of HD 137010 b alongside Earth and Mars.