Where are the best places for life in the cosmos? A universe in a supercomputer yields an answer
Earth seems like a troubled place right now, but at least our cosmic surroundings appear peaceful. This is not universally true, as explosions, collisions and other dangers lurk in other places and times.
Recent research published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society reveals that the sun's position in the outskirts of the Milky Way galaxy is about as ideal as it gets for life. The study, based on simulated universes, indicates that habitable or Goldilocks zones—where conditions are just right for liquid water—are crucial.
In our own Milky Way galaxy, the sun resides within the galactic habitable zone, offering a balance between proximity to other stars and the potential for life-sustaining elements. The research highlights that while earlier galaxies, smaller ones, or those farther from the galactic center might offer life-friendly environments, the Milky Way appears to be a secure investment for habitation.
Smaller galaxies, however, are less hospitable due to overcrowding and increased energetic events. The findings suggest that our universe has created numerous opportunities for habitation, with the Milky Way settling into a more relaxed retirement era, experiencing fewer than one catastrophic extinction event per thousand stars over billions of years.
Written by urgent.news from Phys.org's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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