Is Dwarf Planet Eris Potentially Habitable?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the potential for human habitation on the dwarf planet Eris, emphasizing that while it is too cold for life as we know it to evolve naturally, advanced technology could make colonization feasible. Key points include the reliance on nuclear fusion for energy due to the insufficient sunlight at Eris's distance from the Sun. The conversation highlights the importance of technological advancements in enabling survival in such extreme conditions.

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  • Understanding of nuclear fusion technology
  • Knowledge of extreme environmental conditions on celestial bodies
  • Familiarity with space colonization concepts
  • Awareness of the characteristics of dwarf planets
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  • Research advancements in nuclear fusion technology
  • Explore the environmental conditions on Eris and other dwarf planets
  • Investigate current theories on space colonization and terraforming
  • Study the implications of long-term human habitation in extreme environments
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Science fiction writers, space exploration enthusiasts, researchers in astrobiology, and anyone interested in the feasibility of colonizing distant celestial bodies.

Katherine Sherman
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Hello-
I'm looking to entertain an apocalypse scenario in which survivors (this occurs in the future) flee to the dwarf planet Eris. I chose this planet because I love the myth circling it: "Eris was the Greek goddess of discord and strife. It was felt to be a very fitting name for a planet which sparked debate over the definition of a planet. Its moon, Dysnomia, is named after Eris’s daughter." Even if this is far, far into the future with unlimited resources, would reaching the plant be possible? And if arrival succeeded could human life be sustained?
Thanks so much!
-Katherine
 
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It is too cold for life as we know it to evolve, but living there with sufficiently advanced technology is no problem. The sun would not be very useful at that distance, so the colony would probably rely on nuclear fusion.
 
mfb said:
It is too cold for life as we know it to evolve, but living there with sufficiently advanced technology is no problem. The sun would not be very useful at that distance, so the colony would probably rely on nuclear fusion.
Thank you, that's very helpful!
 

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