NASA’s Kepler space telescope discovered K2-18b, a super-Earth located 120 light-years away in the constellation Leo. This exoplanet orbits a red dwarf star and resides in its habitable zone, where liquid water can exist on the surface.
K2-18b is classified as a super-Earth, with about 8.6 times the mass of Earth. Its stronger gravitational pull and atmospheric conditions make it an interesting test case for life. In 2019, astronomers detected water vapor in K2-18b’s atmosphere using data from the Hubble Space Telescope.
The presence of water vapor suggests a thick atmosphere and potentially a liquid ocean beneath the clouds. Scientists believe microbial life could exist in its atmosphere or beneath this hypothetical ocean. The James Webb Space Telescope detected hints of molecules like methane and carbon dioxide, which are often produced by biological processes.
Studying K2-18b requires advanced technology, mathematical precision, and creative thinking. Astronomers use transit spectroscopy to analyze the spectrum of light passing through a planet’s atmosphere during transits. This method helps build a picture of distant worlds, molecule by molecule.
K2-18b is a symbol of humanity’s quest to understand the universe. The discoveries made here are refining techniques, improving telescope technology, and preparing for future missions. It serves as a beacon of hope, proving that the universe is complex, diverse, and full of potential life beyond Earth.
Source: https://vocal.media/fiction/k2-18b-the-ocean-world-beyond-our-solar-system