Alien life spotted on Planet K2-18 explained: What's the JWST-Cambridge molecule buzz all about?

Is there another planet in the solar system that supports life? NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has reportedly found evidence of possible lifeforms on a distant planet that revolves around a star, reports tell. 

 

Chemicals associated with life were detected by the JWST while studying the atmosphere of a planet identified as K2-18b. According to reports, it was during the research of a Cambridge team that these molecules were found in the planet's atmosphere. The discovery is significant because the said chemicals are only produced by certain living organisms on Earth. However, the Cambridge scientists are against making any tall claims unless they are able to make any further breakthroughs. 

 

The life-linked molecules found in K2-18b's atmosphere were identified as dimethyl sulphide (DMS) and dimethyl disulphide (DMDS). The Cambridge University's Institute of Astronomy researchers reportedly told BBC that these gases are produced on Earth by certain marine phytoplankton and bacteria. Phytoplankton is a type of plankton or organisms that drift in water (or air) but are unable to actively propel themselves against currents (or wind).

 

How far is Planet K2-18b from Earth?

 

Planet K2-18b is over two times the size of Earth and is located 124 light years away. The scientists were surprised as the amount of DMS found on the planet during a single observation is far more than negligible. It is estimated to be thousands of times higher than that on Earth. Thus, there is a fair chance that Planet K2-18b could be thriving with life, they believe.

 

When can we expect further findings?

 

The Cambridge experts are hopeful of finding further proof to either establish or reject their doubts about life on the faraway planet in no less than two years. 

 

What is JWST?

The James Webb Space Telescope or the JWST is the largest and most powerful space telescope ever built. It is as tall as a 3-story building and is able to capture images of some of the first galaxies ever formed. Launched in 2021, the giant telescope is able to observe objects in the solar system from Mars outward, look inside dust clouds to see where new stars and planets are forming and examine the atmospheres of planets orbiting other stars.

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