NewsOrganosulfur discovery hints at potential life on K2-18b

Organosulfur discovery hints at potential life on K2‑18b

Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery by detecting organosulfur compounds in the atmosphere of the planet K2-18b. According to the "New York Times," this discovery may suggest that there could be conditions favourable for life on this exoplanet.

Scientists have discovered organosulfur compounds in the atmosphere of the planet K2-18b.
Scientists have discovered organosulfur compounds in the atmosphere of the planet K2-18b.
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Malwina Witkowska

Key Information

  • Organosulfur compounds were detected in the atmosphere of K2-18b.
  • The planet is located 124 light-years from Earth.
  • On Earth, these compounds are produced in biological processes.

Astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery that may indicate the existence of life beyond the Solar System. According to the "NYT", organosulfur compounds have been detected in the atmosphere of the planet K2-18b, which is 124 light-years away from Earth. On our planet, such compounds are produced exclusively through biological processes.

K2-18b is a planet orbiting a red dwarf star. Its mass is about nine times that of the Earth, and the radius is approximately 2.6 times larger. This makes K2-18b one of the most promising places to search for life beyond our planet.

Are we close to discovering life beyond Earth?

The discovery of organosulfur compounds in the atmosphere of K2-18b has sparked significant interest among scientists. According to "NYT," these compounds on Earth are produced only by living organisms, suggesting that similar processes may occur on this distant planet.

Scientists plan further research to confirm the presence of life on K2-18b. Additional observations and analyses may provide even more information about this fascinating planet and its potential inhabitants.

Although the discovery on K2-18b is promising, scientists emphasise that further research is needed to definitively confirm the presence of life. However, this discovery opens up new possibilities in the search for life beyond our Solar System.

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