Incredible Journey to Kepler-452b

By Saurabh Mishra

It was a historic moment for India as it embarked on its first-ever mission to Kepler-452b, a Super Earth located approximately 1,402 light years away from our home planet, translating to a staggering distance of about 13.7 trillion kilometers. The team of astronauts chosen for this extraordinary mission comprised five individuals: Captain Geneva, Jordan, Drake, Trista, and Mabel.

The arduous journey through the vast expanse of space took a total of 11 hours. As they approached their destination, Captain Geneva inquired about the remaining time.

Geneva: Jordan, how much longer until we reach Kepler-452b?

Jordan: We’ve covered more than half the distance. I estimate it will take approximately 3 to 4 hours to arrive.

Drake interjected, bringing attention to a crucial aspect.

Drake: Captain, according to the reports, it’s suggested we may not need oxygen cylinders due to an abundance of oxygen in the atmosphere. However, I recommend we keep them until we confirm the safety of the environment.

Geneva acknowledged the caution, emphasizing the importance of mitigating risks.

After 3 and a half hours, the team finally reached Kepler-452b. Captain Geneva took the first step onto the unexplored terrain and immediately communicated their findings to ISRO.

Geneva: It’s rocky with a rough surface, and the temperature is slightly warmer than Earth. We’ll proceed cautiously.

Despite the seemingly familiar atmosphere, walking posed a challenge due to the increased gravity on Kepler-452b.

Trista: Walking here is quite challenging.

Mabel: Look, there’s water! Let me check it with my binoculars.

Mabel inspected the surroundings, revealing a potential threat.

Mabel: I see a greasy substance – could be an unknown object or living being that might pose a danger.

Geneva decided to deploy a robot equipped with a camera, speaker, and microphone to investigate further. The team discovered that the greasy substance was, in fact, a unique metal with a low melting point, similar to mercury.

As time passed, the astronauts observed a prolonged sunny day, raising questions about the planet’s axial rotation. It became apparent that Kepler-452b completed one axis rotation in 385 Earth days. They encountered healthy plants and trees, but the lack of sufficient water led to their withering.

Suddenly, the team faced a perilous situation as asteroids began raining down.

Mabel: Many asteroids are incoming – run!

Retreating to their spaceship, they witnessed a shower of asteroids, prompting a unanimous decision to leave the planet immediately.

Drake: It’s not safe to stay here. We should depart now.

Jordan: Agreed. We’ll assess the situation later. Let’s go.

Geneva expressed a desire to return to Kepler-452b in the future.

Geneva: I would like to come back here.

Upon their return to Earth, the team delved into a thorough study of Kepler-452b. They decided that another mission would be planned once their analysis was complete. The remarkable journey to this distant world had opened new doors to exploration and understanding.