CoRoT-7b is an exoplanet orbiting the star CoRoT-7 in the constellation of Monoceros, 489 light-years from Earth. It was first detected photometrically by the French-led CoRoT mission and reported in February 2009. Until the announcement of Kepler-10b in January 2011, it was the smallest exoplanet to have its diameter measured, at 1.58 times that of the Earth and the first potential extrasolar terrestrial planet to be found. The exoplanet has a very short orbital period, revolving around its host star in about 20 hours.
Artist conception of CoRoT-7b transiting yellow dwarf CoRoT-7
Artist's impression of CoRoT-7b. Credit: ESO/L. Calçada.
CoRoT-7b artist view.
Monoceros is a faint constellation on the celestial equator. Its definition is attributed to the 17th-century cartographer Petrus Plancius. It is bordered by Orion to the west, Gemini to the north, Canis Major to the south, and Hydra to the east. Other bordering constellations include Canis Minor, Lepus, and Puppis.
The constellation Monoceros as it can be seen by the naked eye.
The constellation Monoceros, from Urania's Mirror, a set of star charts from 1825. Includes Canis Minor and the obsolete constellation Printer's Workshop
