A combination of tidal forces and vigorous stellar activity might help in transforming uninhabitable gaseous "mini-Neptunes" into potentially-habitable gas-free planets.

University of Washington (UW) doctoral student Rodrigo Luger and research assistant professor Rory Barnes conducted the "mini-Neptunes" research that showed how these planets can make their transition to this state.

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The study revealed these planets orbit low-mass stars, also called M dwarfs that are much smaller and dimmer than our own Sun. These planets also have closer habitable zones.

"There are many processes that are negligible on Earth but can affect the habitability of M dwarf planets. Two important ones are strong tidal effects and vigorous stellar activity," said Luger.

The study suggests the host star is also the cause of a plane becoming habitable. A sun's size and mass will affect the range and size of its habitable zone. Vigorous stellar activity can also inhibit chances of life on a planet because young M dwarfs emit harmful X-rays.

Computer models helped researchers discover that tidal forces and atmospheric escape can shape planets born as mini-Neptunes into gas-free and potentially-habitable worlds.

Mini-Neptunes tend to form far away from their host star. On these planets, ice molecules combine with hydrogen and helium to form the planet's icy rock core surrounded by an immensely gaseous atmosphere.

Researchers suggest a number of other conditions should be present for life to form under these conditions. These conditions include the development of an atmosphere that can recycle nutrients across the planet.

The new study was published in the journal, Astrobiology.

Tagsmini-Neptunes, Neptune, gaseous planets, Stars, tidal forces, vigorous stellar activity, M dwarfs, planets, space exploration