In the journey of exploring the universe, identifying planets capable of sustaining life has always been a top priority. However, recent studies have revealed the phenomenon of “tidal heating”—the rise in a planet’s internal temperature caused by gravitational forces between the planet and its host star—which can significantly alter the habitable zones within our galaxy. “Tidal heating not only pushes planets out of the ideal conditions for life but also completely changes their geological and climatic structures,” according to Rory Barnes, an astrobiologist at the University of Washington.
“The number of potentially habitable planets could decrease by as much as 50% due to the effects of tidal heating,” Barnes presented at the American Astronomical Society conference in 2023. This is especially critical when considering planets orbiting red dwarf stars, which constitute the majority in the Milky Way.

The habitable zone—often referred to as the “Goldilocks Zone”—is typically defined as the distance from a star where liquid water can exist on a planet’s surface. For red dwarf stars, this zone is located very close to the host star, where tidal forces are significantly stronger. The gravitational pull stretches the planet’s crust as it orbits in an elliptical path, causing internal friction and raising the planet’s internal temperature. This process can lead to intense volcanic activity, the release of toxic gases, or even the complete evaporation of surface water.
“Essentially, tidal heating acts as a planet’s self-destructive mechanism,” Barnes emphasized.

However, this phenomenon is not always a negative factor. Some planets may achieve a state of balance where volcanic activity helps sustain temperatures and creates an atmosphere suitable for life. This is particularly important for red dwarf stars, where the light is much weaker compared to the Sun. For instance, greenhouse gases released from volcanic eruptions could trap heat and prevent the planet’s surface from freezing.
Such studies not only provide new perspectives on the potential for extraterrestrial life but also underscore the fact that our understanding of the physical laws of the universe remains limited. Perseverance in research will continue to bring humanity closer to answering the question: “Are we truly alone in the universe?”
HPX24h > Space > Tidal Heating: A New Challenge for Extraterrestrial Life
Top Reads from This Category
Space
The Two Largest Black Holes Ever Discovered
Space
Scientists Discover Dark Galaxy Located 10 Billion Light-Years from Earth
Space
3D Lunar Map: A New Gateway to Understanding the Universe
Space
The Milky Way’s Central Black Hole: The Asteroid Annihilator
Space
Habitable Exoplanets: Exploring Distant Worlds
Space
Exploring a New Super-Earth: Could It Support Life?
Space
Over 100 Billion Planets in the Milky Way: Astonishing Discoveries About the Universe
Discover New Topics
Health
Exploring How Microplastics Enter the Body and Affect Health
Fitness
What is the Ideal Heart Rate for Running?
Science
New Hope for the Blind: A Breakthrough in Retinal Implant Technology
Science
Mind-Controlled Prosthetics: A Groundbreaking Advancement in Medicine
Science
Discovering Enzymes That Stimulate Hair Regrowth: A New Opportunity in Hair Loss Treatment
Healthy Eating
Vegan Keto Diet: Everything You Need To Know
Science
Stem Cell Liver Regeneration: A New Solution for Patients with Severe Liver Failure
Parenting Tips
My Child Is Pulling Out Her Hair: How Should I Handle This?
Science
Why Do Adult Brains Continue to Generate New Neurons?
Parenting Tips
Sleep Apnea in Preschoolers: Understanding It to Protect Your Child’s Health
Science
AI Can Make Life Easier, But Is It Harming Your Ability to Think Critically?
Space
18 New Planets: Unlocking the Gateway to Exploring Giant Star Systems
Science
Artificial Hearts and a Future Without the Need for Transplants