Saturn. Named after the god of agriculture worshipped in Rome at grand temples on (Capitol-line) Capitoline Hill, this gas giant is second only to Jupiter in size. Because of its dazzling system of rings encompassing the planet, Saturn has been the favorite of many a young astronomer. The rings are easily seen with even a moderately sized telescope, and space probes that have been sent there have photographed the planet in beautiful detail.
With 62 recognized moons and a weak magnetic field, Saturn has many fascinating features… but one thing is certain about these features: They are not supportive of human life.
Take for example the atmosphere: A noxious combination of hydrogen and helium.
Or the lack of liquid water.
Or the wind… estimated at over 1,000 mph!
We could look at the temperature: around minus 300 degrees Fahrenheit, with heat waves of minus 180!
Perhaps most interesting is the data which suggests that Saturn expends around 2 and a half times more energy than the Sun supplies it with. While some mechanisms may help explain the way this energy is spent, many are questioning how this planet could have survived for billions of years.
If scientific data and calculations are telling us that Saturn can’t be an extremely old planet, then why are some astronomers still clinging to their failing ideas?
I’m David Rives…
Truly, the heavens declare the glory of God