Earth discovers its friendly new neighbors in this Google doodle

NASA’s discovery of seven Earth-sized planets in a solar system not too far away has space enthusiasts buzzing with excitement. Google has joined in on the celebration with a new animated doodle featured on its homepage.

In the Google Doodle, Earth and its moon discover their friendly space neighbors through a telescope.

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

The solar system called TRAPPIST-1 consists of at least seven planets similar to the size of Earth. Three of them reside in the "habitable zone" -- the area in orbit around the star where planets could conceivably host water on their surfaces given the right atmospheric conditions.

The question on everyone's mind is whether these planets can support life. Scientists have significant studying to do before they can say "yes" or "no" with any certainty, but the potential has us at the edge of our seats.