ABSTRACT
Life-supporting galaxies are unusual, and within these structures, only a limited region is potentially habitable by life as we know it. In this chapter, the traits associated with various domains of our Milky Way galaxy are considered, and the specific attributes of the “bio-friendly” zone in which we exist are highlighted. The unusual characteristics of our Sun are also examined, and the ways in which our Sun’s size, elemental composition, and energy output affected the genesis and continuation of life on Earth are contemplated. In addition, the relatively tranquil orbit our Sun maintains around the galaxy is analyzed, and the significance of this orbit has on the evolution of life is contemplated. Finally, the likelihood that other stars like our Sun exist is reviewed, and the importance such stars may have on the preservation of life elsewhere is considered.
