The Nearest Exoplanet May Sustain Life

The Nearest Exoplanet May Sustain Life
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Observing distant problems is a problematic activity for many astronomers. While a planet may look habitable from a far-away distance, the conditions on its surface may be radically different. Even if it is placed at the proper distance from its size, it is hard to know if the planet is actually habitable.

Proxima Centaury b, considered to be the closest exoplanets to Earth, is thought by many researchers to be a habitable planet. New computer generated models seem to confirm the theory, as the planet may have a large ocean that could allow us to survive on its surface.

It was previously thought that the planet may be a suitable candidate for extraterrestrial life.  It was revealed by some studies that the chances may be slim, as the planet may be to its star. In addition, constant solar flares hit the surface and the radiation could wipeout all life forms.

New research gives a glimmer of hope for the planet. Since it is tidally locked, it always faces the star with the same side, which means that half of it escapes the deadly radiation. Its ocean may also be ‘’dynamic’’, transferring large amounts of water between the two sides due to the particular gravity of the planet. This could mean that life may exist on the dark side of the planets, according to climate models.

But that would be an ideal scenario. In the worst case scenario, the water merely moves because half of the ocean is boiling and half is proven, with the movement being caused by the currents. If the planet can regulate the temperature of the water, it may still prove to be viable for life.

Until a probe can be sent to the planet we will not know for sure. But the dream of a habitable secondary planet may become reality as technology advances and population levels rise.


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I am a pop culture and social media expert. Aside from writing about the latest news health, I also enjoy pop culture and Yoga. I have BA in American Cultural Studies and currently enrolled in a Mass-Media MA program. I like to spend my spring breaks volunteering overseas.

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