NASA discovers Mustafar-like planet 🌋
Plus scientists argue that we need to be ready for sex in space
NASA will study a planet that sounds just like Mustafar
For all you Star Wars lovers out there, remember Mustafar? Where Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker fought? A planet very similar to it has been discovered 🔴
The New Planet:
Named LP 791-18 d
Has the potential to support alien life
Expected to be covered in active volcanoes
Approximately 90 light-years away from Earth
Revolves around a red dwarf star
Tidally locked — one side constantly faces its star, much like our moon, resulting in a lack of rotation ↻
What does this mean?
The side of the planet facing its star would be too hot for liquid water, making it inhospitable, but the side facing away from the star could enable water to condense. There is also a possibility of glaciers forming in the cooler regions. Due to these completely opposite sides, scientists suspect there is a moderate zone in between these two points where an atmosphere can be sustained 💨
Statement on the planet from NASA:
"A big question in astrobiology, the field that broadly studies the origins of life on Earth and beyond, is if tectonic or volcanic activity is necessary for life. In addition to potentially providing an atmosphere, these processes could churn up materials that would otherwise sink down and get trapped in the crust, including those we think are important for life, like carbon.”
There is another planet recently discovered that drew Mustafar comparisons, except this ‘hell planet’ is not hospitable in the slightest 👹
One side of the planet facing the sun is scorching hot, with temperatures hitting 5,500 degrees Fahrenheit 🔥
The other side is freezing cold, 328 degrees below zero 🥶
Atmosphere on the dayside is made up of vaporized rocks instead of air 🪨
These tiny rock particles are carried by extremely fast winds to the nightside, where they cool down and condense, falling as a steady hailstorm of pebbles
Scientists say we need to get ready for sex in space
Key Points:
The Rise of Space Tourism: The space tourism industry is expected to become a commercial reality within the next decade, with private companies offering space flights lasting days or weeks.
Need for Discussion: The industry has largely avoided open discussion about sex in space. NASA has forbidden it. Scientists emphasize the importance of addressing the issue proactively, considering the long-term significance of human reproduction beyond Earth.
Challenges of Microgravity: The microgravity environment of space presents unique challenges for sex in terms of physical maneuvering and potential effects on sexual function. Researchers need to understand these complexities to ensure the safety and well-being of the individuals involved.
Reproductive Health Risks: Space travel could potentially impact human reproductive health, making conception and gestation riskier than on Earth. Further research is needed to assess the potential effects and mitigate any risks.
Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications: The current legal framework for space activities does not explicitly address sexual activities in space, highlighting the need to establish jurisdiction and regulations.
Guidelines for Safe Space Sex: Private space companies, including SpaceX and Blue Origin, will likely have to develop guidelines to ensure the physical health and safety of individuals engaging in intimate activities in space.
NASA drops new images of Jupiter’s moon Io
Third largest moon of Jupiter
located approximately 262K miles (422K kilometers) from the planet
Estimated to have hundreds of volcanoes that are currently erupting
Active volcanoes have the capability to shoot lava several miles high into Io's atmosphere
Prior to its 51st flyby of Jupiter, the Juno spacecraft had covered more than 510M miles since its arrival in 2016. During its journey, Juno has engaged in close encounters with 3/4 largest moons of Jupiter — Europa, Ganymede, and Io 🪐