Explorers Journal
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School
Pennsylvania State University *
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Course
001
Subject
Astronomy
Date
Jan 9, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
5
Uploaded by ProfessorRiverIbis17
Explorers Journal
Phase 1
Star details
Star's Name
: Kepler-1806
Star's Type
: G star
Distance from Earth
: 3190 light years away
Number of Planets
: 1 planet
Star's Mass
: 0.88 x Our Sun Planet Details:
Planet's Name:
Kepler-1806 b
Planet Type:
Neptune-like
Discovery Date:
2021
Planet's Method of Detection:
Transit
Planet Mass
: 6.15 Earths
Planet Radius
: 0.21 x Jupiter
Planet Orbital Distance
: 0.0813 AU
Planet Orbital Period
: 9 days I chose to select the star Kepler-1806 because of its relatively closer distance
compared to other stars in the dataset. With it being 3190 light years away, it felt intriguing yet within a range where observations might yield clearer data. For the planet Kepler-1806 b, my selection was limited as this was the only one orbiting Kepler-1806. I was curious to explore its characteristics, especially since it's a Neptune-like planet, which might offer insights into its composition and potential similarities or differences compared to our own Solar System's gas giants.
Phase 2
For the type of surface for my planet, I chose "Gas Giant" because the information about Kepler-1806 b described it as a Neptune-like planet, which is a type of gas giant in our solar system. This choice aligns with the characteristics associated with gas giants like Neptune.
Regarding the atmosphere on my planet, I selected "Thick clouds" since Neptune, the closest comparable object in our solar system, is known for its
extensive cloud cover composed of frozen methane crystals, ammonia, and water vapor.
The estimated surface temperature for my planet is 722.531 K. Given this high temperature, it suggests that the planet is not habitable as we know it. The temperature surpasses the boiling point of water, making it unlikely for liquid water to exist on the surface for long periods. The extreme conditions would pose significant challenges for any form of life as we know it.
The calculated surface gravity for my planet is 1.111733 times that of Earth. This suggests that the planet has a gravity level slightly higher than Earth, which could influence its atmospheric retention and overall composition.
Considering the characteristics of gas giants and the information provided, I would guess that my planet may be made mostly of gases like hydrogen and helium, similar to Neptune. This assumption is based on the categorization of
Kepler-1806 b as a Neptune-like planet and the typical composition of gas giants in our solar system.
Phase 3
Image 1
Exploring my planet is an intriguing experience. The visibility on this world is generally low due to thick clouds dominating the scene. The ambiance is dimly lit, and the predominant colors are muted, with the clouds contributing
to a slightly overcast blue-grey appearance. Stars are not visible, and the cloudy atmosphere obscures much of the celestial backdrop. Despite the low visibility, movement feels surprisingly easy. The gravity setting allows for a sense of freedom in navigation, with the ability to jump slightly higher than expected. However, the lack of a solid surface limits exploration to the atmospheric realm.
Considering the conditions, I would not consider my planet a suitable target for an actual landing or in-depth exploration. The thick clouds and atmospheric nature make it challenging to ascertain any potential habitability or unique surface features.
Based on the information from NASA's Eyes and my customization choices, my NASA's Eyes planet most resembles Neptune in our Solar System. The presence of thick clouds, the dimly lit atmosphere, and the absence of a solid
surface align with the characteristics of Neptune, a gas giant known for its dynamic and cloudy atmosphere.
Image 2
Star Name: Mikey Planet Name: Wazowksi 51
The setup I designed involves a planet with a radius similar to 4 Earths, featuring a smooth ice surface and an atmospheric composition hosting
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some clouds. Positioned at a substantial orbital radius of 4000 AU, it's accompanied by numerous moons and adorned with rings, contributing to its
distinctive appearance.
While this custom planet doesn't precisely align with known celestial bodies, its existence isn't entirely implausible. Planets with ice surfaces and atmospheres containing some clouds exist within our universe. The main intent behind its customization was to craft an intriguing and visually captivating celestial body. The inclusion of rings and multiple moons adds to its allure, distinguishing it significantly from the original planet chosen from NASA's Eyes. Regarding its potential to harbor life, while not intentionally tailored to be habitable by human standards, the extremophiles discussed in Unit 3 of the game, capable of surviving in extreme environments, might find a niche in this planet's conditions. The icy surface, albeit extreme for Earth-based life, might theoretically support unique forms of life adapted to such frigid environments.
Image 3
In the vast expanse of the cosmos, my imagined habitable planet is named Aurora Terra, orbiting the star Solara Lux, an M type star. The inhabitants, if
intelligent, might refer to their home as "Lumina," embracing the brilliance of
their surroundings.
Aurora Terra presents a captivating landscape with a bright orange, rocky surface, reminiscent of warm desert hues. The atmosphere features wisps of clouds, creating breathtaking sunsets and fostering a temperate climate. The
surface temperature, approximately 307.18 K, makes it habitable for life forms, possibly similar to those adapted to Earth's conditions.
The habitability of Aurora Terra is facilitated by the planet's diverse ecosystems, evolved to thrive in this unique environment. Native life forms could have adapted to the rocky terrain, utilizing the abundance of sunlight and mild temperatures. These beings may have developed bioluminescence as a means of communication or energy absorption, creating a harmonious relationship with the radiant environment. The planet's balanced conditions make it a potential haven for a variety of life forms, illustrating the endless possibilities of habitable worlds beyond our own.