Gliese 581 is a red dwarf star located about 20.3 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Libra. It is smaller and cooler than our Sun, with a mass roughly one-third that of the Sun. The star has gained attention due to its planetary system, which includes several exoplanets. Among these exoplanets, Gliese 581g is particularly notable because it lies within the star's habitable zone, where conditions might allow for liquid water. This has led to interest in the potential for life beyond Earth, making Gliese 581 a significant target for astronomical research.