habitability criteria

Habitability criteria refer to the conditions needed for a planet or moon to potentially support life. These include having liquid water, an atmosphere that can protect and nourish life, the right temperature range for biological processes, and essential elements like carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. Additionally, the planet should be in its star's habitable zone—the right distance where temperatures aren't too hot or cold. Stable conditions over time are also important, allowing life to develop and thrive. These factors help scientists identify worlds outside our solar system that might have the right environment for life.