New research suggests that even in death, red giant stars can be a blessing for habitable planets in their vicinity. Scientists have drawn attention to the role of stellar wind, which can determine the conditions for the emergence of life on planets around old stars.
Writes about this IFLScience.
The Earth’s magnetic field plays a key role in protecting against particles ejected by the Sun. As a star like our Sun ages, the risk of destructive eruptions on its surface decreases, increasing the chances of sustaining life on planets in its vicinity.
For example, when the Sun enters the red giant stage, its outer layers may reach Earth’s orbit, seemingly wiping out all life. However, after this phase, when the star sheds its outer layers and turns into a white dwarf, the habitable zone becomes stable, providing a new chance for life on planets in its surroundings.
Scientists say the transition from an ordinary star to a red giant is too fast for life to adapt. However, old stars and white dwarfs can be considered as potential “hosts” for habitable planets after completing their life cycle.
This discovery expands our understanding of the possibilities for life in the Universe and suggests that even after a star’s life cycle ends, planets in its system may have a second chance at habitability.
Earlier, Cursor reported that scientists have figured out how to provide drinking water to future colonizers of Mars.
