But no second earth
Study: There was probably never life on Venus
December 3rd, 2024 – 3:30 p.mReading time: 2 min.
Despite having many Earth-like properties, Venus probably had no oceans, according to British researchers. This contradicts previous theories.
Venus is an uncomfortable planet. The average temperature there is 460 degrees. The surface is riddled with lava flows and impact craters.There is no molecular oxygen like on Earth.
Still, there are similarities with Earth: Venus, such as, is only slightly smaller – there is hardly any difference in mass and size. The gravity is also only slightly lower. A human could walk around the surface of Venus without any restrictions from gravity.
Because of its similarities to Earth, researchers previously assumed that Venus might onc have had oceans full of water that lasted for hundreds of millions of years. Wrong, say British researchers.Venus was never able to retain liquid water on its surface.
In their study, which they published in the journal Nature, the scientists describe how they came to their conclusion. To get a look inside the planet, they examined the gases produced by volcanic activity in Venus’ atmosphere.
the result: The interior of the planet is far too dry and contains too low a proportion of hydrogen molecules for the planet to ever be able to hold liquid water on its surface for long.
This makes it clear to the researchers: Venus was probably never a candidate for life.
It is unclear what impact these results will have on future Venus missions. NASA wants to send a probe to the planet to examine its surface in 2031 at the earliest as part of the Veritas mission (Venus Emissivity, Radio Science, InSAR, Topography and spectroscopy).
The European Space agency (Esa) also wants to go to Venus.Esa wants to launch its EnVision probe in 2032 and map the surface of the planet. The space agency also wants to examine the composition of the atmosphere in more detail.
Researchers from the renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) found that there could be life there in a study at the beginning of the year. Because high up in the planet’s dense cloud cover, which is located at an altitude of around 48 to 60 kilometers, temperatures are similar to those on Earth. Read more about this here.
According to the researchers, further research is needed to expand on their results and hypotheses and to clarify open questions, they said.
What are the most promising places in our solar system for finding extraterrestrial life?
Interview: The search for Extraterrestrial Life – A Conversation wiht Dr. Maria Chen
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to Time.news, dr. Chen! Today, we’re diving into the latest findings on Venus, which has recently been declared unlikely to have ever supported life. How significant is this study in the context of astrobiology?
Dr. Maria Chen (MC): thank you for having me! The findings regarding Venus are quite significant. For decades, Venus was considered a potential candidate for life due to the discovery of phosphine in its atmosphere, which some believed could indicate microbial life. though,this new study suggests that the conditions on Venus have likely always been too antagonistic for life as we understand it.
TNE: That’s fascinating. Can you elaborate on what makes Venus such an inhospitable environment?
MC: Absolutely. Venus has a thick atmosphere composed mainly of carbon dioxide, with clouds of sulfuric acid, leading to surface temperatures of around 900 degrees Fahrenheit (475 degrees Celsius). These extreme conditions, combined with high atmospheric pressure, make it incredibly challenging for any form of life, at least as we know it, to exist.
TNE: Many would say that while this sounds definitive,the search for extraterrestrial life is an ongoing journey. Where do we go from here in terms of exploring other planets?
MC: You’re right. the search for life beyond Earth continues, and it’s crucial to look at other celestial bodies that may have more favorable conditions. For exmaple, moons like Europa and enceladus in our Solar System have subsurface oceans that could harbor life. Additionally, exoplanets in the habitable zone of their stars are prime targets for future research.
TNE: Speaking of exoplanets, do you think there’s a possibility we might find an equivalent of Earth out there soon?
MC: The search is definitely on, and while we have discovered thousands of exoplanets, finding one with Earth-like conditions is complex. The definition of a ‘second Earth’ includes not just the right distance from a star but also atmospheric conditions and possible water presence. Advances in technology and missions planned in the next decade could bring us even closer to that discovery.
TNE: It seems like we’re on the brink of what could be revolutionary findings. What role do you believe international collaboration will play in this endeavor?
MC: International collaboration is key. Space exploration requires a significant investment of resources, knowledge, and manpower. Different countries bring unique expertise and technology, enhancing our research capabilities. Joint missions,data sharing,and pooled resources can expedite the discoveries we’re all eager to make.
TNE: Before we wrap up,what message would you like to convey to the public regarding the search for life beyond Earth?
MC: I think it’s significant for the public to remain curious and open-minded.The universe is vast and complex,and while we may face setbacks like the one with Venus,each study informs our understanding of where life could possibly exist. Every discovery—whether negative or positive—is a step closer to finding answers about our place in the cosmos.
TNE: thank you,Dr. Chen, for your insights today.It’s clear that while this latest study may dim the lights on Venus as a potential cradle of life, the search for extraterrestrial existence remains as vibrant and promising as ever.
MC: Thank you! I look forward to what the future holds in our exploration of the universe.