11/1/2023 0 Comments Life as we know it 2![]() The discovery of exoplanets, beginning in the early 1990s and accelerating thereafter, has provided further information for the study of possible extraterrestrial life. The observation and robotic spacecraft exploration of other planets and moons within the Solar System has provided critical information on defining habitability criteria and allowed for substantial geophysical comparisons between the Earth and other bodies. The late 20th century saw two breakthroughs in the field. The idea that planets beyond Earth might host life is an ancient one, though historically it was framed by philosophy as much as physical science. Rocky, wet terrestrial-type planets and moons with the potential for Earth-like chemistry are a primary focus of astrobiological research, although more speculative habitability theories occasionally examine alternative biochemistries and other types of astronomical bodies. Stellar characteristics of importance include mass and luminosity, stable variability, and high metallicity. In determining the habitability potential of a body, studies focus on its bulk composition, orbital properties, atmosphere, and potential chemical interactions. Habitability indicators and biosignatures must be interpreted within a planetary and environmental context. In August 2018, researchers reported that water worlds could support life. In its astrobiology roadmap, NASA has defined the principal habitability criteria as "extended regions of liquid water, conditions favorable for the assembly of complex organic molecules, and energy sources to sustain metabolism". Research and theory in this regard is a component of a number of natural sciences, such as astronomy, planetary science and the emerging discipline of astrobiology.Īn absolute requirement for life is an energy source, and the notion of planetary habitability implies that many other geophysical, geochemical, and astrophysical criteria must be met before an astronomical body can support life. Of particular interest are those factors that have sustained complex, multicellular organisms on Earth and not just simpler, unicellular creatures. Īs the existence of life beyond Earth is unknown, planetary habitability is largely an extrapolation of conditions on Earth and the characteristics of the Sun and Solar System which appear favorable to life's flourishing. Environments do not need to contain life to be considered habitable nor are accepted habitable zones (HZ) the only areas in which life might arise. ![]() Life may be generated directly on a planet or satellite endogenously or be transferred to it from another body, through a hypothetical process known as panspermia. Planetary habitability is the measure of a planet's or a natural satellite's potential to develop and maintain environments hospitable to life. ![]() Understanding planetary habitability is partly an extrapolation of the conditions on Earth, as this is the only planet known to support life. For a list of potentially habitable planets found to date, see List of potentially habitable exoplanets.
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