Earth-like atmosphere unlikely to survive exoplanet's orbit

Scientists are studying our closest Earth-size exoplanet neighbor – Proxima b – to determine if it’s habitable. A recent computer simulation has provided good data on the question. Using Earth as a model – the simulation placed a planet with an Earth-like atmosphere into Proxima b’s orbit around its host star, Proxima Centauri. The simulation determined that the planet would likely lose its atmosphere from the effects of Proxima Centauri’s intense radiation and frequent flaring. Observations from our Chandra X-ray Observatory and other data were used for the simulation. Also, Getting a Feel for Eclipses, SOHO Reveals Rapidly Rotating Solar Core, Curiosity’s Five-Year Anniversary on Mars, and Putting NASA Earth Science to Work!

Credit: NASA