New Earth-based metric could improve the search for habitable planets
Study shows current models may miss where life thrives - offering a new tool for astrobiology and exoplanet research.
A new study by researchers at Birkbeck, University of London and University of Exeter suggests that, despite recent improvements in our knowledge, technology, and telescopes, we might still be missing the mark when assessing planetary habitability. By comparing satellite data of Earth’s biosphere with commonly used climate-based habitability metrics, the paper found that single-variable models, such as those based solely on temperature or dryness, do not fully capture where life actually flourishes.
In response, the study has suggested introducing a multi-factor metric that better reflects the real conditions under which life thrives on Earth. It combines temperature thresholds for both microbial and complex life, alongside a requirement for sustained water availability.
Lead author of the study and PhD researcher, Hannah Woodward commented:
“Moving beyond broad assumptions on what makes an environment habitable, we’re using real-world data of life on Earth to guide our definition. This new metric represents a step forward in the search for life-supporting environments on other planets.”
The findings could help guide future exoplanet missions as astronomers begin to assess not just whether a planet could host life, but where life could thrive based on Earth-like conditions.
The research has been accepted for publication in Planetary Science Journal under the title “A novel metric for assessing climatological surface habitability”.