A new analysis by University of Chicago scientists has cast doubt on a recent claim that a molecule found in the atmosphere of K2-18b, a distant planet 124 light-years from Earth, could signal life. The researchers reviewed data from multiple observations using the James Webb Space Telescope and found that other molecules could explain the readings.
The initial announcement last April suggested the presence of dimethyl sulfide or dimethyl disulfide, two molecules associated with life on Earth. However, the new study’s lead author, Rafael Luque, stated that the data is “much too noisy” to confirm the finding and that there is not enough certainty to make a conclusive claim.
The analysis highlights the challenges of interpreting data from distant planets, where scientists rely on indirect clues due to the vast distance and faintness of these celestial bodies. The researchers re-examined the data to ensure it was robust enough to support an extraordinary claim like detecting signs of life.
Their findings add caution to the growing skepticism surrounding the K2-18b discovery, emphasizing the need for more rigorous evidence before drawing conclusions about extraterrestrial life.
Source: https://news.uchicago.edu/story/possible-sign-life-deep-space-faces-new-doubts