The GJ 581 System
GJ 581 is a planetary system in the constellation Libra hosting 3 confirmed exoplanets, about 21 light-years from Earth.
GJ 581: Star and Habitable Zone
GJ 581
- Spectral type
- M3.0 V
- Surface temperature
- 3,500 K (Sun: 5,772 K)
- Mass
- 0.30 M☉
- Radius
- 0.30 R☉
- Luminosity
- 0.0124 L☉
Habitable zone of GJ 581: 0.091–0.236 AU (conservative: 0.115–0.224 AU), per Kopparapu et al. (2014). Earth orbits the Sun at 1 AU.
See the full interactive habitable-zone view in the Exoplanet Explorer app ›
All 3 Planets in the GJ 581 System
Discovery History
The first planet found here, GJ 581 b, was discovered in 2005 using the radial velocity method. The most recent addition, GJ 581 e, followed in 2009.
Frequently Asked Questions About GJ 581
How many planets does GJ 581 have?
GJ 581 has 3 confirmed exoplanets. More may await discovery.
Are any planets in the GJ 581 system habitable?
None of the known planets in GJ 581 orbit within the star's habitable zone.
How far away is GJ 581?
GJ 581 is about 21 light-years from Earth in the constellation Libra.
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