Astronomers have detected organically produced chemicals in the atmosphere of a distant exoplanet, marking the strongest indication yet of extraterrestrial life. The findings were made on K2-18b, a planet 124 light-years from Earth, using data from the James Webb Space Telescope.
The analysis revealed two biologically produced compounds, dimethyl sulfide and dimethyl disulfide, in the atmosphere of K2-18b. These compounds are commonly found in marine algae on Earth and are produced by biological activity. The discovery is significant because it suggests that living organisms could be present on the planet.
K2-18b orbits a red dwarf star in the constellation Leo and has been found to have conditions suitable for liquid water, making it a prime candidate for supporting life. However, further research is needed to confirm the findings, as some experts question the presence of clouds on the planet.
The detection was made possible by using infrared cameras aboard the James Webb Space Telescope to analyze light passing through K2-18b’s atmosphere. The telescope detected starlight being absorbed into the planet’s atmosphere, providing clues for astronomers to determine the gases present.
While the discovery is intriguing, it’s essential to note that more research is required to confirm the presence of life on K2-18b. The Webb telescope observations could be the result of chance or unknown chemical processes, and further analysis is needed to reach a definitive conclusion.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2025/04/18/extraterrestrial-alien-life-found-planet-k2-18b/83135300007