Utilizing a method of detection called "gravitational lensing" first predicted by Albert Einstein in the General Theory of Relativity, scientists have discovered the most distant planet yet.  Measuring the light of a more distant star as it passes through the gravitational fields of nearer objects requires that all of the objects be aligned precisely as viewed from the observer's position (in this case, Earth).  The newly discovered planet, believed to be larger than Jupiter, is orbiting a star 17,000 light years away.

You can read more about the discovery in this article from BBC News.

And while I'm on the subject of extrasolar planets…  Does anyone really believe, given the large number of newly discovered planets (see this or this or this for just a few examples that I've posted about), including one within our own solar system (see SPACE.com's article on Sedna), that we are not rapidly approaching some cosmologically significant discoveries?  More planets, more solar systems, smaller planets, more solar systems, planets like ours, more solar systems, planets with life, more solar systems, planets with intelligent life, more solar systems…

If you haven't come to grips with that little reality yet, I suggest you do.  I sincerely believe that science is preparing to reveal to us some rather significant truths.  Being alone in the universe will not be one of them…