Scientists from the University of California have calculated how life conditions on Earth might change if the parameters of Jupiter’s orbit change. Study published in the Astronomy Journal.
Using data from the solar system, the study’s authors created its alternative model. It turns out that if Jupiter’s orbit gets longer, this will lead to changes on Earth. Our planet would come closer to the Sun, and as a result, all of our glaciers would melt. This will increase the Earth’s area suitable for life.
This result refutes the belief that Earth is an ideal planet for life and that any change in Jupiter’s orbit can only have a negative effect. However, Jupiter could still wipe out most life on Earth: If it were closer to the Sun, it would change the Earth’s tilt. In this case, a significant part of the planet could freeze.
As astronomers now focus on the distance between a planet and its star without taking into account the shape of the orbit and the tilt of the planets, the scientists’ findings could prove useful in the search for habitable exoplanets. Also, the study will help to understand what effect Jupiter has had on Earth’s climate in the past and how it may change us in the future.