Could life arise on a brown dwarf?

In summary, the discovery of a warm super-Jupiter raises questions about the potential for finding life on or near such a body. Recent evidence suggests that the existence of planets outside of our solar system is more common than previously believed, and that a significant number of these planets may be capable of supporting life. The possibility of life beyond Earth is becoming increasingly likely, and further research and discoveries may soon provide conclusive evidence.
  • #1
Chronos
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The recent discovery of a warm super-Jupiter [re: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=727440] raises tantalizing questions about the prospects of life being found on, or near, such a body. A quick perusal of the literature reveals [unsurprisingly] this possibility has been considered by scientists: http://www.space.com/11268-alien-life-brown-dwarfs-failed-stars.html, http://www.nasa.gov/vision/universe/starsgalaxies/spitzer-020705.html
 
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  • #2
Wow. I had no idea such a thing ever happened. Cosmology just gets weirder and weirder :smile:

Thanks for posting.
 
  • #3
The evidence continues to accrue suggesting abiogenesis is a virtual certainty within our own galaxy. Only a few decades ago, there was considerable debate over the very possibility of planets existing outside our own solar system. That debate has been convincingly settled. Planets are now considered more abundant than stars. Soon thereafter the debate was over the rarity of earthlike planet. Now, it is believed not only are earth-like planets common, but, a surprisingly large number occupy habitable zone orbits. If we find evidence life ever existed on Mars, or elsewhere in the solar system, its game over. I think this would be convincing proof that life is rampant in the universe. An interesting paper for consideration "Bayesian analysis of the astrobiological implications of life's early emergence on Earth", http://arxiv.org/abs/1107.3835.
 
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FAQ: Could life arise on a brown dwarf?

1. Can life exist on a brown dwarf?

Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that life can exist on a brown dwarf. Brown dwarfs are considered "failed stars" and do not possess the necessary conditions for life to arise, such as a stable energy source and a suitable atmosphere.

2. How do brown dwarfs differ from planets?

Brown dwarfs are often confused with planets due to their similar size and mass. However, brown dwarfs are much more massive than planets, and they produce energy through deuterium fusion, while planets do not. Additionally, brown dwarfs do not orbit around a star like planets do.

3. Could there be liquid water on a brown dwarf?

No, it is highly unlikely for liquid water to exist on a brown dwarf. Brown dwarfs have extremely high atmospheric temperatures, reaching up to 2,700°F, which would cause any water to evaporate. Additionally, their lack of a solid surface and strong magnetic fields make it difficult for liquid water to form.

4. Is there any evidence of organic molecules on brown dwarfs?

While there have been some indications of organic molecules on brown dwarfs, these molecules are likely formed through non-biological processes. The extreme conditions on brown dwarfs make it unlikely for complex organic molecules necessary for life to form.

5. Could there be habitable moons orbiting a brown dwarf?

It is unlikely for habitable moons to exist around a brown dwarf. Without a stable energy source from a star, the conditions necessary for life to arise on a moon would not be met. Additionally, the strong gravitational pull of the brown dwarf would make it difficult for a moon to maintain a stable orbit.

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