Dr Robin Catchpole, senior astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, said the red coloration was a brilliant effect.

BBC: You are in: Sci/Tech

Marek Kukula, Public Astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, said that beyond that, the planet's very existence makes a tantalising suggestion.

BBC: Exoplanet around Alpha Centauri is nearest-ever

The UK has one other such station as the Royal Greenwich Observatory in East Sussex.

BBC: Satellite technology aids quake research

In 1675, the foundation stone of the Royal Observatory was laid at Greenwich in south London by order of King Charles II, to improve knowledge of the positions of stars and thus aid navigation.

CNN: Sunday,