Title: James Webb Space Telescope Detects Carbon-Based Molecules on Potential Ocean World
Subtitle: Exploration of exoplanet K2–18 b sheds light on the search for extraterrestrial life
Date: [Current Date]
In a groundbreaking discovery, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has detected the presence of carbon-based molecules in the atmosphere of K2–18 b, a potential ocean world located approximately 120 light-years away from our solar system. The findings are a significant leap forward in the ongoing search for life beyond Earth.
Scientists have long considered K2–18 b, an extra-solar planet or exoplanet, as a prime candidate for hosting life due to its size, radius between two and three times larger than Earth’s, and location within the habitable zone of its star. Previous observations using the Hubble Space Telescope had suggested that the planet may possess liquid water, a crucial ingredient for life.
The new research conducted by the University of Cambridge, with Nikku Madhusudhan as the lead author, revealed the presence of carbon dioxide and methane in K2–18 b’s atmosphere. The absence of ammonia in the detection supports the notion of a water ocean beneath a hydrogen-rich atmosphere.
Madhusudhan emphasized the importance of exploring different habitable environments in the search for extraterrestrial life. While exoplanet research has primarily focused on smaller rocky planets, the larger Hycean worlds like K2–18 b hold far greater potential for atmospheric observations.
The JWST’s findings not only confirmed the presence of carbon molecules but may have also unveiled the existence of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) in K2–18 b’s atmosphere. Although DMS is typically associated with life on Earth and is mainly produced by phytoplankton, the team remains cautious about this detection and seeks further confirmation from upcoming JWST observations.
Despite the excitement generated by these discoveries, the mere presence of a water ocean and carbon molecules does not guarantee the presence of life or the planet’s ability to support living organisms. With a size larger than Earth, K2–18 b contains a high-pressure ice interior reminiscent of Neptune, potentially resulting in excessive heat that renders its oceans inhospitable.
The success of this research lies in the JWST’s advanced capabilities. By observing the transit of K2–18 b across its parent star, the telescope was able to analyze the faint light that penetrates the exoplanet’s atmosphere, revealing its chemical composition. With its extended wavelength range and exceptional sensitivity, the JWST provided results that surpassed those of the Hubble Space Telescope by a significant margin.
While these findings are already a testament to the power of the JWST, the research team plans to continue observing K2–18 b using the Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) to gather more data and validate their initial discoveries. Their ultimate goal is the identification of life on a habitable exoplanet, which would revolutionize our understanding of the universe and our place within it.
The research conducted by the University of Cambridge and its team has been accepted for publication in the Astrophysical Journal Letters, further solidifying the significance of this groundbreaking study.