The European Southern Observatory

An Earth-size planet has been discovered orbiting the star Alpha Centauri B.

Perhaps our dream of traveling to a planet outside our solar system is just a bit closer to becoming reality. Last week, astronomers discovered a planet circling around the star Alpha Centauri B.

It's close, in astronomical terms that is, at only 4.3 light years away. However, this new planet is too hot for life; Its proximity to its star makes its surface around 2,200 degrees.

Scientists hope that there are other similar planets orbiting this star in the so-called "Goldilocks Zone," where the right temperature and proximity to a star equals the existence of water and the other elements of life.