Written in SCIENCE he
He universe It has always been a source of mystery and wonder, and each new discovery brings us a little closer to understanding the immensity of the cosmos. On this occasion, a finding was revealed that could change our perspective on possibility of life beyond the Land and all thanks to the space telescope James Webb.
The focus is on the exoplanet K2-18 b, a world located 120 light years away in the constellation Leo, this exoplanet, which is 8.6 times more massive than Earth, has been in the spotlight of the scientific community for some time now. The initial observations, made with the Space Telescope Hubble of the POT, provided the first understanding of the atmospheric properties of K2-18 b. However, Webb detailed information about its composition and opened up the viability of harbor life.
According to information collected by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (POT) Were detected molecules containing carbon, methane and carbon dioxidein the atmosphere of K2-18b.
These molecules are fundamental to life as we know it on Earth. Furthermore, the suggestion that this exoplanet could be a Hycean raises even more fascinating questions about its potential habitability.
The Hycean exoplanets, like K2-18 b, are a unique class in the universe, with characteristics that make them very different from anything in our own solar system. Its size, which is between that of the Land and Neptunepresents an enigma for astronomers, since there are no known close examples that resemble them.
The discovery of methane and carbon dioxide, along with the possible presence of dimethyl sulfide (DMS), a molecule produced by life in the Landraises the possibility of the existence of a ocean of water under one hydrogen-rich atmosphere in K2-18 b. However, it is important to note that, due to its large size, this world could harbor a high-pressure ice sheet inside.
So, can it support life or not? It is essential to understand that the detection of carbon-containing molecules does not guarantee the presence of life. The habitability of K2-18 b depends on a number of factors, including the temperature and the exact composition of its atmosphere and surface, detailed the POT.
This discovery was possible thanks to the ability of telescope James Webb to analyze light from K2-18ba’s parent star as it passes through the exoplanet’s atmosphere. This technique allowed scientists to identify the molecules present in the atmosphere of the exoplanet.
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