Review on the Role of Planetary Factors on Habitability

Orig Life Evol Biosph. 2016 Nov;46(4):473-486. doi: 10.1007/s11084-016-9514-1. Epub 2016 Jul 9.

Abstract

In this work various factors on the habitability were considered, focusing on conditions irrespective of the central star's radiation, to see the role of specific planetary body related effects. These so called planetary factors were evaluated to identify those trans-domain issues where important information is missing but good chance exit to be filled by new knowledge that might be gained in the next decade(s). Among these strategic knowledge gaps, specific issues are listed, like occurrence of radioactive nucleides in star forming regions, models to estimate the existence of subsurface liquid water from bulk parameters plus evolutionary context of the given system, estimation on the existence of redox gradient depending on the environment type etc. These issues require substantial improvement of modelling and statistical handling of various cases, as "planetary environment types". Based on our current knowledge it is probable that subsurface habitability is at least as frequent, or more frequent than surface habitability. Unfortunately it is more difficult from observations to infer conditions for subsurface habitability, but specific argumentation might help with indirect ways, which might result in new methods to approach habitability in general.

Keywords: Astrobiology; Habitability; Planets; Subsurface.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Evolution, Planetary*
  • Exobiology
  • Extraterrestrial Environment*
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Planets*