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Speedy white dwarf planets are more likely to be habitable
- A new study led by UC Irvine reveals that some white dwarf planets could potentially support life, contrary to previous beliefs.
- White dwarfs, the remaining cores of dead stars, were thought to have uninhabitable planets in their orbit, but 'speedy' planets around them could maintain habitable conditions.
- Comparing possible planets around white dwarfs with those around sun-like stars, researchers found that planets orbiting white dwarfs are warmer and more likely to be habitable.
- The study, led by Aomawa Shields, suggests that habitable conditions on white dwarf planets depend on their speed in orbit and proximity to the star.
- The researchers used a 3D climate model to compare planets in habitable zones of white dwarfs and Kepler-62, a sun-like star.
- Contrary to expectations, the white dwarf exoplanet in the simulation was warmer and potentially more habitable than the one around Kepler-62.
- Being tidally locked, the white dwarf planet completes an orbit in just 10 hours, with a warmer climate due to fewer clouds and a stronger greenhouse effect.
- The study opens new possibilities for discovering habitable exoplanets around white dwarfs, showcasing a new frontier in the search for life-supporting worlds beyond our solar system.
- Observational capabilities like the James Webb Space Telescope may lead to studying a new class of worlds around previously unexplored stars.
- Contrary to previous beliefs, the study indicates that some white dwarf exoplanets could potentially support life due to unique climate characteristics.
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