Exoplanet Habitation: A Possible Future?

Can We Ever Live on an Exoplanet? Science and UAE's Shared Vision

Humanity has always strived to look beyond its current boundaries, whether in terms of geographical discoveries, technological innovations, or space exploration. The latest question, which now appears not only on the pages of sci-fi books but also in scientific forums, is: is it possible for humanity to one day live on an exoplanet?

The United Arab Emirates, which has made significant advances in space research over the past decade, is now not only sending rockets and satellites into space but is also leading scientific discussions on how to sustain life beyond Earth. At an event held during Space Week at the Sharjah Science Museum, scientists, researchers, and students gathered to discuss what human life might mean on a planet orbiting another star.

What is an exoplanet?

Exoplanets are celestial bodies that do not orbit the Sun but are found in other star systems. These planets can be rocky or gas giants, but what is truly exciting is the so-called "habitable zone"—the region around a star where the temperature could allow the presence of liquid water. This condition is one of the basic criteria for life.

Recently, two exoplanets have gained attention: L 98-59 f and K2-18 b. The former orbits a red dwarf just 35 light-years from Earth and appears to be located in the habitable zone. The latter, K2-18 b, is even more exciting: the James Webb Space Telescope found traces of molecules such as dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) in its atmosphere, which are linked to marine microbes on Earth. Although these do not unequivocally prove the presence of life, they are considered potential biosignatures.

The Possibility of Life on Exoplanets

At the event, the head of the Sharjah Academy for Scientific, Space and Technology Research's astronomical observation center stated: "If someone had claimed a hundred years ago that we would discover exoplanets, many would have laughed. Today we know they exist, and while the possibility of life there is still distant, it is not impossible that it might become a reality in the future."

However, the challenges are enormous. One of the biggest obstacles is low or zero gravity, to which the human body is not accustomed. From the experiences of astronauts on space stations, we know that bone density, muscle mass, and other physiological issues decline over the long term.

Another serious challenge is food production. On an exoplanet, it would not be possible to transport all necessary supplies from Earth. A self-sustaining, closed ecological system would be needed where food, water, and oxygen recycling is solved.

The Role of the UAE in Space Exploration

The United Arab Emirates is investing not only financial or technological resources into space research but also strongly relies on educating the younger generation. Events organized at the Sharjah Science Museum, like 'Space Dialogues,' provide students the opportunity to engage directly with space science, participate in planetary science workshops, and gain insight into how the universe works.

According to educators, such programs convey not only scientific knowledge but also inspire young people to become researchers, engineers, or space science professionals in the future. This is crucial in the long term for the UAE to remain a key player in the global space race.

Social Awareness and International Recognition

Experts at the event emphasized that space research cannot be exclusively in the hands of the government or scientific elite. Public information, investment in education, and popular science are key elements for the country to truly become a space superpower. Today, the UAE is alongside nations like India, China, Russia, Brazil, and the European Union's space programs, all from a region that decades ago barely figured on the global scientific map.

Where to Next?

The question remains: can we ever live on an exoplanet? The answer is currently unclear. Scientific and technological limitations still confine this possibility within narrow margins, but the pace of discoveries is accelerating. The UAE's example shows that national vision, the right strategic decisions, and energy invested in education together can achieve dreams once thought unimaginable.

Humanity may not yet be ready to find a new home around another star, but the idea is no longer just a fantasy—it is a scientific question. And as we learn more about the universe, we get closer to the answer being "yes." The UAE is ready to play a key role in this future.

(The article is based on information released for Space Week.)