A new study proposes a rectangular telescope design to efficiently find nearby Earth-like exoplanets. Current designs, like the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), are circular, limiting their ability to resolve small, distant planets. This new rectangular design, roughly the same size as JWST, could resolve Earth-size planets around sun-like stars within 30 light-years. It would focus on detecting infrared light, enhancing contrast and making planets easier to find. The rectangular shape makes the telescope more cost-effective and easier to launch than other proposed solutions, potentially discovering around 30 promising planets within three years.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.