It has been estimated that the universe is over 13 Billion years old. There are some studies that estimate the Universe to be 26.7 Billion years old. The reason for the differences is the different models that are used to estimate how the universe formed. The current main theory is called The Big Bang Theory. Which estimates the universe to be around 13 Billion years old. Done by measuring the expansion rate of the universe and cosmic microwave background radiation.
The Solar System that we enhabit is estimated to be around 4.6 billion years old with the earth forming shortly after the solar system's formation to be around 4.5 billion years old.
We now in the 21st century have the capabilities of scanning the cosmos like never before in the history of this earth. Where once we could only measure to the horizon. Now we can measure and learn about the most distant of objects in the universe. Once upon a time we found it difficult to distinguish between stars and planets. Understanding our place in the cosmos. With ever more powerful telescopes both on earth and in space. The search and investigation of other worlds begun in earnest at the turning of the 21st century. It continues on to this day as the distant horizons beckons us on.
Many obstacles exist between our place on earth and the understanding of the cosmos. Not least is the difficulty of leaving the planet that orbits this one star in a galaxy of many billion stars.