Astronomers have detected potential signs of life on exoplanet K2-18b, located approximately 120 light-years from Earth in the constellation Leo. Using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), researchers identified chemical compounds in the planet’s atmosphere that, on Earth, are typically associated with biological processes.Forbes+9euronews+9Science & Nature+9
K2-18b is classified as a “Hycean” planet—a type characterized by a hydrogen-rich atmosphere and a possible ocean-covered surface. With a mass about 8.6 times that of Earth and a radius 2.6 times larger, it orbits within its star’s habitable zone, where conditions could allow for liquid water to exist .AP News+6Science & Nature+6Time+6
The JWST’s spectroscopic analysis revealed the presence of methane, carbon dioxide, and notably, dimethyl sulfide (DMS) in K2-18b’s atmosphere. On Earth, DMS is predominantly produced by marine phytoplankton, making its detection particularly intriguing . However, scientists caution that these findings are preliminary and require further validation to rule out non-biological sources .Business Insider+12Science & Nature+12Science & Nature+12The TelegraphAP News+1Business Insider+1
Lead researcher Dr. Nikku Madhusudhan from the University of Cambridge emphasized the significance of these observations, stating that the atmospheric composition suggests the presence of an ocean beneath a hydrogen-rich atmosphere, conditions that could be conducive to life .Live Science+6The Telegraph+6WTAJ+6
While the detection of these molecules does not confirm the existence of life on K2-18b, it represents a significant step in the search for extraterrestrial life. Further observations and analyses are planned to better understand the planet’s atmosphere and assess its potential habitability.WTAJ+12euronews+12AP News+12
This discovery underscores the importance of considering a diverse range of planetary environments in the quest to find life beyond Earth, expanding the scope beyond Earth-like planets to include those with different atmospheric and surface conditions .
