A newly discovered gas giant in the habitable zone of Alpha Centauri A has sparked excitement among scientists about the possibility of a real-life Pandora, just like in the Avatar movies. The potential exoplanet, dubbed S1, is estimated to be around the same size as Saturn and could have a moon capable of supporting life.
Researchers believe that S1’s orbit may have moved it in front of Alpha Centauri A, making it harder for telescopes to spot the gas giant. However, if confirmed, this discovery would be one of the most significant to date.
Currently, only two planets have been discovered within our neighboring star system, both of which orbit Proxima Centauri. The idea of traveling to Alpha Centauri and establishing a human colony has long fascinated scientists and science fiction fans alike.
The discovery of S1 is reminiscent of Pandora from the Avatar franchise, with its supposed habitable zone and large moon. However, scientists are cautious about the possibility of life on this hypothetical moon.
“The chances of life existing on a moon around S1 depend on how large it is,” says one researcher. “If it’s small, like Titan, it’s unlikely to support life. But if it’s larger, like Mars, then there’s a chance.”
Spotting exomoons, which are moons orbiting other planets, could be the next challenge in confirming S1’s existence. However, this requires more powerful telescopes than currently available.
The discovery of S1 has reignited interest in space exploration and the search for extraterrestrial life. As scientists continue to study this potential gas giant, they may uncover answers about the possibility of a real-life Pandora.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/space/exoplanets/a-real-life-pandora-newfound-disappearing-planet-in-our-neighboring-star-system-could-have-a-habitable-moon-just-like-the-avatar-movies