Sun might be a long-distance traveler

SEATTLE, Sept. 16 (UPI) -- U.S.-led scientists say the sun might have traveled far from where it formed, contradicting a belief that stars generally remain static.

University of Washington researchers used a supercomputer to create simulations that show, at least in galaxies similar to the Milky Way, stars such as the sun can migrate great distances.

If that's true, scientists say it might change the theory that there are parts of galaxies -- so-called habitable zones -- that are more conducive to supporting life than other areas.

"Our view of the extent of the habitable zone is based in part on the idea that certain chemical elements necessary for life are available in some parts of a galaxy's disk, but not others," said Rok Roskar, a doctoral student in astronomy and lead author of the study. And, he added, if the idea of habitable zones doesn't hold up, it would change scientists' understanding of where, and how, life could evolve in a galaxy.

The research that included Thomas Quinn of the University of Washington, Victor Debattista of the University of Central Lancashire in England and Gregory Stinson and James Wadsley of McMaster University in Canada appears in the Astrophysical Journal Letters.