Searching for Earth-like planets in this solar system and beyond

Abstract:

Earth sits in a narrow habitable zone, and its future habitability depends on the actions of those who inhabit the planet today. Earth’s complex climate reflects interactions between its interior, surface, oceans, biosphere, atmosphere and its star – our sun. Studying the climates of other planets around our sun - Mars, Venus and Titan - can help us better understand the processes that control climate here on Earth. These three bodies provide compelling targets for future study as we explore beyond our solar system to find Earth-like worlds around other stars.