How many planets can we estimate in other galaxies?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the estimation of the number of planets in other galaxies, particularly focusing on nearby galaxies. Participants explore the challenges and current capabilities in estimating planetary systems beyond our own galaxy.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions how far we are from estimating the number of planets in other galaxies and whether state-of-the-art equipment is necessary for this task.
  • Another participant mentions that estimates suggest there are around 200 billion solar systems in normal galaxies, prompting a clarification on whether a specific galaxy is being referenced.
  • A clarification is provided that the participant was not thinking of a specific galaxy, and they mention an estimate of 2 billion solar systems instead.
  • Discussion includes a reference to the Andromeda galaxy, noting its similarity to the Milky Way and suggesting it could host many planets, but current telescopes can only resolve separate stars.
  • One participant humorously downplays the distance to Andromeda, suggesting that 2.537 million light years is not that far based on personal experience.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of estimating planets in other galaxies and the significance of distance, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain without consensus.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions about the capabilities of current telescopes and the definitions of "normal galaxies," which remain unresolved in the discussion.

davidge
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How far are we from being capable of estimating the number of planets in other galaxies? At least, in any of the nearby galaxies that are already known to us?

Would this require state-of-art equipments?
 
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We already estimate that the number of solar systems in normal galaxies is on the order of 200 billion. Do you mean some specific galaxy?
 
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phinds said:
Do you mean some specific galaxy?
No. I wasn't really thinking of any particular galaxy.
phinds said:
We already estimate that the number of solar systems in normal galaxies is on the order of 2 billion
Good. I did'nt know that.
 
Our nearest large neIghbor galaxy is Andromeda, it appears to be quite similar to the Milky way, but roughly 30% bigger.
It's reasonable to suggest that there could be many planets there, however our present telescopes can just about manage to resolve separate stars.
2.537 million light years (but closing) is a long way from here.
 
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rootone said:
2.537 million light years (but closing) is a long way from here.
Pshaw. It's not that far. I can see that far (or could in my younger days).
:woot:
 
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