NASA scientists have discovered 219 potential new worlds using Kepler, a space observatory launched in 2009. The spacecraft is on the agency’s first mission to find other Earth-like planets. Ten were found in the habitable zone and might be able to support liquid water. In a livestreamed briefing, the scientists said the planets are “right next door,” meaning they are only a few lightyears away. NASA thinks Kepler will be able to continue its operation until October 2018.
