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The Biggest Space Discoveries of 2013

Space.com  |  Article By Nola Taylor Redd 

 The year 2013 saw a wealth of discoveries, insights  that advanced the fields of astronomy and other space sciences. From extrasolar planets to extraterrestrial neutrinos, these finds have made sure that 2013 has been an unforgettable year!

Here's a look back at some of the most stunning space science revelations of the year:

Extraterrestrial neutrinos found in Antarctica

Physicists in Antarctica found the first evidence of cosmic rays from outside the solar system. The energetic rays themselves are difficult to detect, so scientists rely on the discovery of neutrinos produced as the cosmic rays interact with their surroundings. 

But using the IceCube Neutrino Observatory, an instrument buried in a cubic kilometer of ice beneath the South Pole, physicists were able to detect two neutrino events (originating from OUTSIDE the solar system) — the detection opened the door to a greater understanding of some of the powerful events in the universe.

Ancient Mars supported life

In December, the Curiosity team announced evidence of a freshwater Martian lake near the planet's equator that could have supported life for extended periods of time. The lake likely existed about 3.7 billion years ago.

This image from NASA's Curiosity rover shows the first sample of powdered rock extracted by the rover's drill.

Earth's almost-twin FOUND

At the end of October, scientists announced the discovery.The planet, called Kepler-78b, is just 20 percent wider and 80 percent more massive than Earth, and boasts a similar density. 

Hailed as the "comet of the century" throughout 2013, Comet Ison

Comet ISON comes in from the bottom right and moves out toward the upper right, getting fainter and fainter, in this time-lapse image ABOVE

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