PRELIMS BITS
NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has identified K2-18 b, an exoplanet located in a habitable zone, indicating conditions that might support liquid water and possibly life.
Key Features of K2-18 b
- Distance & Size: Located 124 light-years away, K2-18 b has a radius 2.6 times that of Earth and is 8.6 times more massive.
- Atmosphere: Methane and carbon dioxide have been detected, along with dimethyl sulfide (DMS), a molecule associated with biological activity on Earth.
Hycean Planet Hypothesis
Scientists suggest K2-18 b might be a “Hycean” planet, characterized by potential oceans and a hydrogen-rich atmosphere. These features could create environments favourable for life.
- Discovery: Initially identified by the Kepler Space Telescope in 2009.
- Advancements: Recent observations by the James Webb Space Telescope provided detailed atmospheric data, offering new insights.
Potential for Life
The presence of DMS is particularly intriguing, as on Earth, it is produced by oceanic plankton. This raises the possibility of biological activity on K2-18 b, though its larger size compared to Earth raises questions about its habitability.
Research and Future Steps
Astronomer Nikku Madhusudhan and his team emphasize studying a variety of planetary types, including larger planets like K2-18 b. These could offer vital information about atmospheric conditions and the potential for life.
The James Webb Space Telescope dedicated eight hours to examining K2-18 b’s atmosphere, focusing on confirming the presence of DMS and assessing its habitability.
Added Points:
- K2-18 b: A promising exoplanet in the habitable zone, located 124 light-years away.
- Hycean Planets: Planets with hydrogen-rich atmospheres and potential oceans, expanding the search for life.
- DMS Detection: The molecule linked to biological processes raises hopes for possible life on K2-18 b.