What would happen to a human being who landed on a planet with twice the Earth's gravity? Could he even live?

Question

They just found a similar, earth-like planet in a nearby solar system. It has 2 or 3 times our gravity, though. Could we even walk around or have normal bodily function there?

Answer 1

It would be exhausting

Answer 2

If the environment was capable of supporting human life (air, food, etc), the gravity wouldn't be insurmountable... humans adapt... most likely, we'd adapt by developing thicker bones and stronger muscles... it is also likely we'd have shorter lifespans :(

The significance of finding this new planet isn't that we might go there and live... it is that we've been able to fine tune our instruments to the point where we can detect smaller planets around stars not our own. Eventually, it is hoped, we will find a truly Earth-like world... if that happens, I think it would definitely spur the space program to new heights! More support from governments around the world, etc...

Answer 3

I'll bet it would be survivable, though not fun. I look at it this way. I'm pretty out-of-shape, and I weigh about 230 pounds. If a 115-pound person (which is small, but not impossibly small for an adult) went to that planet, they'd only weigh as much as I do and I'm OK. They'd probably be in better shape too, to stay that light, so they'd have stronger muscles than mine to hold them up. So if I can manage here, I think it would be possible for at least some people to manage there.

Answer 4

Imagine walking around carrying someone your own weight all the time on your back . By the way, the only thing earth like is the temperature. It could have no atmosphere for all anyone knows.

Answer 5

sure they could survive. Since the gravity is about twice as much they would weigh twice as much.