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Life and light: exotic photosynthesis in binary and multiple-star systems
J T O'Malley-James1, J A Raven, C S Cockell
1School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife, UK. jto5@st-andrews.ac.uk
Astrobiology
|January 31, 2012
Summary
Earth-like planets in multiple-star systems could support photosynthesis. Stable radiation environments are possible, allowing for familiar and exotic life forms, including infrared photosynthesizers.
Area of Science:
- Astrobiology
- Planetary Science
- Stellar Astrophysics
Background:
- Binary and multiple-star systems are common in the galaxy.
- The habitability of planets in such systems is an active area of research.
- Photosynthesis is a key biological process for life as we know it.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the potential for Earth-like planets in multiple-star systems to host photosynthetic life.
- To model the levels of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) received by planets in various stellar configurations.
- To explore the implications for different types of photosynthetic organisms.
Main Methods:
- Modeling of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) levels.
- Investigation of M and G star combinations in close-binary, wide-binary, and three-star systems.
- Analysis of stable radiation environments.
Main Results:
- Stable radiation environments suitable for photosynthesis are possible in various binary/multiple-star system configurations.
- Planetary PAR levels can support familiar photosynthetic life.
- Conditions may also favor exotic photosynthetic life, such as infrared photosynthesizers.
Conclusions:
- Earth-like planets in multiple-star systems present viable environments for photosynthetic life.
- The spectral diversity of stellar radiation could lead to specialized photosynthetic organisms.
- Further research into exoplanet habitability in multi-star systems is warranted.
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