An Earth-like planet spotted outside our solar system is the first found that could support liquid water and harbor life.

The new “super-Earth” is called Gliese 581 C. Because it lies within its star’s habitable zone and is relatively close to Earth, Gliese 581 C could be a very important target for future space missions dedicated to the search for extraterrestrial life, said study team member Xavier Delfosse of Grenoble University in France.