News Astronomy

‘Goldilocks’ stars may pose challenges for any nearby habitable planets

Far-ultraviolet radiation from orange dwarfs could endanger planetary atmospheres

illustration of the 70 Ophiuchi double-star system

Orange dwarfs, such as those of the nearby double-star system 70 Ophiuchi (illustrated), could have life-bearing planets — but not if far-ultraviolet light leads to the destruction of their atmospheres.

Chris Butler/Science Source

By Ken Croswell

If you’re an aspiring life-form, you might want to steer clear of planets around orange dwarf stars.

Some astronomers have called these orange suns “Goldilocks