In the ever expanding attempts to search for life and gather information in the stars above, astrologists have been constantly searching for new planets and life. “Tatooine” Planet with Two Suns Could Host Habitable Moon?, written by Victoria Jaggard of National Geographic News, discusses a new planet that could possibly be the first Earth-like moon.
The “Tatooine” Kepler-16b derives its nickname from the fact that it is orbiting around two Suns, similar to the planet in Star Wars. Through use of satellites, astrologists were able to determine its “region of life,” or the area in which based on human standards life could be (somewhat) possible. However, the most interesting aspect about this planet is not the planet itself, but rather a moon in Kepler-16b’s orbit. Not only is it large enough to sustain an Earth-like atmosphere, but it also it falls within Kepler-16b’s “region of life”. Such a discovery would be enormously significant because it would be the first Earth-like moon to be discovered. While there are more than 700 discovered planets, there have been no confirmed moons outside of our solar system.
Jaggard uses a classification and division structure to appeal to the readers of National Geographic, and to inform them (in a spatial context) about the importance of such a possible discovery. Jaggard divides the article into different sections, first describing the planet itself, moving on to the traits of the moon, and then ending with the significance of such a discovery. To add ethos to her argument, Jaggard cites several experts in the different areas of expertise, such as Billy Quarles, a doctoral student at the University of Texas. There is also evidence of humor or a lighter persona that is adapted; the referencing of planet Kepler-16b as “Tatooine” adds a sense of informality and comfort. Overall, Jaggard certainly is able to inform readers of such a phenomenon, and only adds to the growing pressures to find life on other planets.
Interesting topic!
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