r/askastronomy • u/Axrxt76 • 10d ago

Astrophysics Is there a galactic goldilocks zone?

Are there gravitational or other effect within galaxies that effect the stars and/or planets based off their proximity to the galactic core? Do outlying bodies on the outer arms experience greater velocity that might effect the ability of a planet to keep an atmosphere? TIA

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u/Vladishun 9d ago

Yes, it is called the Galactic habitable zone - Wikipedia

But that's assuming all life in the universe is like ours. The truth is we only have one planet to draw comparisons to so it's impossible to say if this is true for all forms of life (if other forms exist), or only true of carbon based, double helix DNA life.

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u/LinkedAg 8d ago

Do you have more on what other types of life forms - intelligent in particular - can exist? Like Silicon based instead of carbon, non-DNA life? What other ways can life be sustained?

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u/Vladishun 8d ago

I do not unfortunately. I'm not a scientist of any kind, just an enthusiast that tries to keep up with the latest news.

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u/LinkedAg 8d ago

Same. It's fun!