@jeawok_media: Astronomers have identified compelling signs of potential life on exoplanet K2-18b, situated 124 light-years away in the constellation Leo. Utilizing the James Webb Space Telescope, a collaborative British-U.S. research team detected dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and dimethyl disulfide in the planet’s atmosphere—compounds on Earth exclusively produced by marine microorganisms like phytoplankton. While these findings are promising, scientists emphasize the necessity for further observations to confirm the presence of these biosignatures and to exclude non-biological sources. Lead researcher Nikku Madhusudhan of Cambridge University expressed optimism about verifying the signal within the next one to two years. K2-18b, more than eight times the mass and 2.5 times the size of Earth, resides in the habitable or “Goldilocks” zone of its red dwarf star, suggesting conditions suitable for liquid water. This positions it as a candidate for a “Hycean” world—a theoretical class of exoplanets with hydrogen-rich atmospheres and potential ocean-covered surfaces. Previous observations in 2023 also identified methane and carbon dioxide in its atmosphere, further indicating the possibility of carbon-based molecules. Despite the excitement, experts urge caution, noting that extraordinary claims require equally extraordinary evidence. Do you think there is life on K2-18b? . . #space #k218b #nasa #jameswebbtelescope #trending #fyp #fypシ #jeawok #jeawokmedia

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Friday 18 April 2025 00:50:43 GMT