The Sun's habitable zone and orbital resonaces/stability

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the orbital resonance configurations of five Mars/Earth-massed planets orbiting a Sun-like star within the range of 0.6 AU to 2 AU. It concludes that specific orbital resonances can ensure maximum stability over billions of years. The addition of gas giants may enhance this stability, particularly for Earth-like masses. A calculator tool is referenced for further exploration of these configurations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics and resonance
  • Familiarity with planetary mass classifications (Mars/Earth mass)
  • Knowledge of AU (Astronomical Unit) measurements
  • Basic concepts of planetary system stability
NEXT STEPS
  • Research orbital resonance configurations in multi-planet systems
  • Explore the impact of gas giants on planetary stability
  • Utilize online calculators for simulating planetary orbits
  • Study the habitable zone parameters for various star types
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and planetary scientists interested in the dynamics of planetary systems and the conditions for long-term stability in habitable zones.

PlutoXenon
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Let's say there's five Mars/Earth massed planets orbiting a star like the sun between 0.6 AU and 2 AU, what orbital resonance configuration can they be into ensure maximum stability? Would adding gas giants to the system enhance stability?
 
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For Earth-like masses and a Sun-like central star, you can pack planets very close while maintaining billions of years of orbital stability. This website has a calculator. Earth excludes further planets in the range from 0.95 to 1.05 AU, a very narrow range. Smaller masses exclude even smaller regions.
 
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