Habitable super-Earths with up to five times the mass of our own planet could possess vast, long-lasting oceans, new research suggests. <\/p>\n
Oceans cover more than two thirds of the Earths surface and are continually replenished by volcanic activity dragging up water buried deep underground. <\/p>\n
But a new study indicates that habitable zone planets with two to four times the Earths mass may be even better at establishing and maintaining oceans. <\/p>\n<\/p>\n
A planet occupying a stars habitable zone is in an orbit where temperatures are mild enough to allow the existence of liquid surface water, making lakes, rivers and oceans possible. <\/p>\n
Most scientists agree that liquid water is a prerequisite for the development of life as we know it. <\/p>\n
Dr Laura Schaefer, from the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics in the US, who led the new research, said: When people consider whether a planet is in the habitable zone, they think about its distance from the star and its temperature. However, they should also think about oceans, and look at super-Earths to find a good sailing or surfing destination. <\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Studies have shown that the Earths mantle holds several oceans worth of water that has been pulled underground by the movements of tectonic plates and sinking ocean floors. <\/p>\n
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Super-Earths are the best bet for oceans capable of hosting life<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Habitable super-Earths with up to five times the mass of our own planet could possess vast, long-lasting oceans, new research suggests. Oceans cover more than two thirds of the Earths surface and are continually replenished by volcanic activity dragging up water buried deep underground. But a new study indicates that habitable zone planets with two to four times the Earths mass may be even better at establishing and maintaining oceans Continue reading