Researchers discover evidence of life on exoplanet K2-18b!

Researchers discover evidence of life on exoplanet K2-18b!

Scientists have discovered remarkable substances on the exoplanet K2-18b that could indicate possible life forms. This fascinating planet is located about 124 light-years from Earth and was identified in 2015 using the Kepler Space Telescope. It orbits a red dwarf star called K2-18 in the constellation Leo and lies in the habitable zone of its star, which creates the conditions for liquid water. This could be crucial for the existence of life.

The key results of the study were published in the specialist journalThe Astrophysical Journal Letterspublished. An international team of researchers identified specific sulfur compounds in the planet's atmosphere, namely dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and dimethyl disulfide, which on Earth are produced exclusively by marine algae, particularly phytoplankton. This discovery comes through the use of the state-of-the-art James Webb Telescope, which enabled a detailed analysis of the atmospheric composition of K2-18b.

Chemical clues to life

K2-18b has more than eight times the mass of Earth and is probably composed of similar basic elements as the terrestrial planets in our solar system. This new finding has the potential to revitalize the search for extraterrestrial life, as the chemical compounds found could indicate biological activity. Nikku Madhusudhan from the University of Cambridge emphasizes that these indications of possible biological activity are of significant relevance, but he emphasizes that further observations are necessary to verify the results.

In addition, other molecules such as methane and carbon dioxide were also discovered. This suggests that K2-18b could even be a Hycean planet, meaning it has a hydrogen-rich atmosphere, with a surface potentially completely covered in water. Back in 2019, the Hubble Telescope found water vapor in the planet's atmosphere, supporting the possibility of water in liquid form.

The path to crucial discoveries

The recent discoveries have reignited interest in K2-18b and fueled scientists' curiosity. However, extensive further observations with the James Webb Telescope are required for final confirmation of the discoveries. The research team plans to review these findings and expand them further in the future in order to significantly advance the search for life on habitable exoplanets.

The discovery on K2-18b could revolutionize understanding of the conditions for life outside Earth and offers exciting perspectives for the future of astronomical research.

For detailed information about the results, please read the articles on Cosmo, ZDF and 20 minutes.