Titan, Saturn’s largest moon, has long fascinated scientists with its alien environment and potential for life. The second-largest moon in the solar system boasts rivers, lakes, and seas – but not made of water. Instead, they’re composed of liquid methane, ethane, and hydrocarbons.
Researchers have been studying the possibility of life on Titan, focusing on whether essential building blocks like cells can form in these extreme conditions. To create a cell, scientists need to understand how to make a vesicle – a bubble that traps liquid inside. A recent study investigated the role of amphiphile molecules, which are attracted to both water and fat.
The team modeled precipitation on Titan’s lakes and discovered that amphiphile molecules can separate into droplets, even if the outside is also covered in the same liquid. This process could eventually lead to the formation of a protocell – a precursor to life as we know it.
According to co-author Conor Nixon, “The existence of any vesicles on Titan would demonstrate an increase in order and complexity, which are conditions necessary for the origin of life.” The upcoming NASA mission Dragonfly, set to launch in 2028, will bring a flying vehicle to Saturn’s moon, providing new insights into Titan’s secrets.
Source: https://www.iflscience.com/molecular-protocells-may-form-on-titan-even-at-more-than-100-degrees-below-zero-80010