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1d ago
Planets need more water for life than scientists thought
- New simulations show arid exoplanets in habitable zones may lose habitability if water drops below a threshold.
- Researchers estimate Earth-like planets need 20–50% of Earth's ocean water to maintain a stable climate.
- Venus is used as a nearby example of how higher temperatures and water loss can undermine habitability.
- The study relies on simulations since direct observations of rocky exoplanets are challenging.
- Researchers say future missions may help validate the modeling results.
- The work emphasizes water's central role in stabilizing planetary climates over long timescales.
- Planetary scientists studied carbon exchange between atmosphere and interior via weathering and volcanism.
- Arid planets within habitable zones may not be good life candidates due to carbon-cycle disruption.
- The study was funded by NSF, NASA Astrobiology, and the Sloan Foundation.
- The team aims to narrow down habitable real estate by refining evaporation and precipitation in their models.
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