NASA's TESS satellite has created a new map of the universe showing nearly 6,000 exoplanets discovered as of September 2025. The map combines 96 observations taken between April 2018 and September 2025.
Map combines 96 observations over eight years
Blue dots on the map represent approximately 700 confirmed exoplanets, while orange dots mark more than 5,000 candidate planets. Some of these exoplanets orbit two stars. The Milky Way is visible at the center of the image.
Rebekah Hounsell, a researcher involved with TESS, said the satellite has become a fire hose of exoplanet science over the last eight years. It has helped find planets of all sizes, from Mercury-like worlds to those larger than Jupiter. Some are in the habitable zone where liquid water could exist on the surface, a key factor in the search for life beyond Earth.
NASA Science provided details about the map and the mission's discoveries. The agency has not announced any further milestones or follow-up plans for TESS.
Discussion
0 comments
Log in to join the thread with a thoughtful take, question, or correction.