Proxima, often referred to as Proxima Centauri, is the closest known star to the Sun, located about 4.24 light-years away in the constellation of Centaurus. It is a red dwarf star, significantly smaller and cooler than our Sun, with a mass only about 12% that of the Sun. Proxima is part of a three-star system that includes Alpha Centauri A and Alpha Centauri B. In 2016, astronomers discovered an exoplanet orbiting Proxima, named Proxima Centauri b. This planet is located within the star's habitable zone, where conditions might allow for liquid water to exist. The study of Proxima and its planets is important for understanding the potential for life beyond our solar system.