http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/30/science/space/30planet.html?_r=1&ref=science
On September 29, 2010, Astronomer Dr. Steven S. Vogt helped discover a planet in the Libra constellation that is thought to be able to support life. The planet, Gliese 581g, is located in prime location in comparison to the star it orbits where the temperature is not too hot or too cold. Although the possibility is exciting, the planet may not be able to support more life than simple lichens, and several factors, including the greenhouse effect, may stifle the high expectations for the newfound earth-like planet.
The bias in this article is very subtle, and therefore, quite balanced. It gives positive review of the discovery, sparking giddy enthusiasm in the reader. It balances this out by presenting possible flaws in the new discovery. The bias isn't particularily pro or con environmentalist. It's more premature exciment vs. facts of deeper investigation.
I. Earth Systems and Resources
A. Earth Science Concepts- solar intensity
B. The Atmosphere- composition
C. Global Water Resources and Use- surface and groundwater issues
III. Population
A. Population Biology Concepts- survivorship
VII. Global Change
B. Global Warming- greenhouse gasses and the greenhouse effect
~Calhan Hale
This is a really interesting discovery!
ReplyDeleteSay we do send a mission out to Gliese 581g, would it be possible to send a rover or lander to the planet to get clearer photos and samples? Or would the signal be lost because the planet is about 20 light years away?
And also, what happens if we do find life other than lichen there? Is it likely that more missions would be sent to Gliese 581g or would scientists try to find a similar habitable planet closer to earth?