Researchers in Japan have released a database that displays the location of exoplanets in three dimensions and allows people to study whether the environments of the planets could support life. Exoplanets are planets that orbit a fixed star outside our solar system.
A group of researchers, including Professor Yamashiki Yosuke of Kyoto University and others, launched the database.
The group says the database shows the position of about 6,000 exoplanets in space in 3D. It also provides detailed data for each planet, including estimated size and temperature.
The researchers say some of the images were drawn by students from Moriyama high school in Shiga Prefecture, based on data and using their imagination.
In 2016, the group unveiled a system that displays two-dimensional images of exoplanets. The group says the researchers further developed the system.
They are now planning to create a structure to evaluate radiation levels received on the surface of stars.
The group expressed hope that the database will be used for educational purposes for children and astronomy enthusiasts.
One of the group members is astronaut Doi Takao. He said the database can help people think about whether humans can live on specific planets. He also said it will be useful when humans venture into space.
AloJapan.com