Factors for selecting a planet as a target for terraforming

Paper number

IAC-05-A3.P.05

Author

Mr. Erik Clacey, Swedish Space Corporation, Sweden

Coauthor

Mr. Julio Aprea Perez, International Space University (ISU), The Netherlands

Coauthor

Mr. Angelo Grubisic, University of Southampton, United Kingdom

Coauthor

Mr. Damian Rogers, Ryerson University, Canada

Year

2005

Abstract

The act of terraforming a planet, i.e. changing a whole planet to better suit surface life, has been a topic of fantasy and many science fiction novels and movies and will remain there for many years to come, if nothing is done about it today. This paper will assess one of the critical factors that need to be addressed, this being the choice of a planet. The paper will do so by first introducing the concept of terraforming followed by the parameters that, using current knowledge and understanding, are required for successful and sustained terraformation. These include such parameters as distance to a star, size, activity, magnetic fields, atmospheric conditions, if any, etc. The distance to the central star has an affect on the maximum amount of solar radiation, i.e. heat, light as well as high energy radiation and particles that a planet receives. Using our solar system as a model, the distance where habitable planets can be found is called the habitable zone; exosolar planets may change this idea. The size will affect the gravity experienced on the surface, which also has its effects on the possible atmospheric conditions. The activity of the target planet will help determine the possibilities of a planetary magnetic field and the cycling of volatiles and nutrients. Using the above mentioned as well as other parameters, including political will, possible targets in our solar system will be determined. This will be done by comparing the pros and cons of each. This method can also be used when searching for exosolar planets that may harbour life. Such a search may however also look at other planets in order to confirm or refute the current theories of where surface life can exist.
The paper concludes with a recommendation to future terraformers on which planet to terraform and why.

Abstract document

IAC-05-A3.P.05.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-05-A3.P.05.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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