Cornell University's newest research institute has determined a new method to identify Earth-like exoplanets orbiting distant stars.

The institute, aptly called the Institute for Pale Blue Dots, was named after famed astronomer Carl Sagan who developed an effective strategy for astronomers and planetary scientists.

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Led by director Lisa Kaltenegger, the new institute examines new techniques in the search for habitable worlds. Kaltenegger says this is one of the most exciting endeavors humanity is currently engaged in.

He noted the search for infant exoplanets similar to Earth can reveal relevant and interesting information about how habitable planets thrive. A study by the institute delves into Habitable Zones or regions that provide enough heat to keep water in its liquid state on planets. 

The scientists also consider if the planets aren't hot enough to prevent the formation of life. The findings suggest many infant exoplanets that present good chances of supporting an ecosystem are apparently farther from their suns than previously thought.

This new information can prove very useful to astronomers trying to locate Earth-like exoplanets in far away star systems. These planets are now easier to spot especially when they're located in the far reaches of the Habitable Zone.

These young stars apparently don't change their luminosity for about 2.5 billion years. This span allows life to evolve as life first begins underwater.

TagsHow to Find Earth-like Exoplanets and Possible Alien Life, earthlike planets, institute for pale blue dots, how to search for earthlike planets exoplanets infant earth alien life