To date, astronomers have discovered more than 5,000 exoplanets orbiting stars outside the Solar System.

Although Hubble cannot always observe distant exoplanets directly (because they are usually too small and too close to their stars), it continues to play an important role in understanding these planets.

Hubble studies the disks of dust and debris that set the stage for planet formation and observes distant planetary systems, collecting important data on the composition and conditions of these worlds. In fact, it was the first telescope to image protoplanetary disks or “proplyds” around stars in detail.

By searching for planets around other stars and revealing their unusual properties, Hubble reminds us how extraordinary and unpredictable our universe is.

Image description: This image shows a blue planet with swirling white clouds.

Image credits: NASA, ESA, M. Kornmesser