The habitable zone (HZ) around a star is the region where a planet could maintain liquid water on its surface, given sufficient atmospheric pressure. This concept is central to astrobiology because liquid water is considered a key ingredient for life as we know it.
The location of the HZ depends primarily on the star’s luminosity and spectral output. More luminous stars push the HZ farther out, while dimmer stars pull it inward. The inner edge is set by the runaway greenhouse limit, and the outer edge by the maximum greenhouse limit.
A simple way to estimate the HZ distances is to use the inverse‑square law: the stellar flux received by a planet scales with L / d². By equating this flux to the critical flux limits (S_inner and S_outer), we obtain d = sqrt{frac{L}{S}}. This calculator implements that relationship.
What is the habitable zone?
How does stellar luminosity affect the habitable zone?
What are the boundaries of the habitable zone?
How does atmospheric pressure affect a planet's position in the habitable zone?
Can a planet outside the habitable zone support life?
What factors besides luminosity affect the habitable zone?
How do scientists determine the habitable zone of a distant planet?
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.