Answering this question is rather intricate. Discovering exoplanets involves various methods, each providing insights into different physical properties with varying levels of certainty. One way to estimate a planet's minimum mass is through the radial velocity method, while the transit method helps us figure out its radius. Due to the uncertainties in the measurements, it's currently not possible to determine the exact identity of the smallest planet found.
An excellent option for this position would be Kepler 37b, discovered in 2013 and extensively researched since then.
Kepler 37b belongs to a planetary system situated in orbit around a star similar to the Sun, approximately 200 light-years away from Earth. Three planets have been found in this system, and their sizes are being compared to planets in our Solar System.
Kepler 37b holds the position closest to its star among the trio of planets. Based on the latest measurements, the radius is approximately 2,000 km, equivalent to 30% of Earth's radius. It is just a bit bigger than the Moon, but not as large as Mercury.
Currently, the mass has not been accurately determined but is anticipated to be less than 0.8 Earth masses.
Kepler 37b travels at a distance of 0.1 AU from its star, completing a full orbit in only 13 days. From being so far away, the planet is bombarded with a significant amount of radiation, likely erasing any signs of an atmosphere, assuming there was one to begin with. Due to the radiation, it is highly improbable that the planet could support life forms.
Image credit: NASA/Ames/JPL-Caltech.
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