Henrik R
Astronomers Detect Strongest Evidence Yet of Alien Life.
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Scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope have identified what may be the most compelling sign of extraterrestrial biology ever observed.
A Giant Planet 124 Light-Years Away
The discovery centers on a distant planet named K2-18 b, located about 124 light-years from Earth in the constellation Leo.
Not Just Another Exoplanet
K2-18 b is a “Hycean planet” — one with a hydrogen-rich atmosphere and potential liquid oceans — making it a prime candidate for hosting life.
“Strongest Evidence Yet,” Says Cambridge Astrophysicist
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Chemical Traces Point to Possible Life
The James Webb data shows “chemical fingerprints” of two molecules — dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and dimethyldisulfide (DMDS) — which on Earth are only known to be produced by life.
A Stunning Moment in Space Science
Prof. Madhusudhan called the discovery “staggering,” adding that it could mark a turning point in our search for life in the universe.
“This Could Be the Moment”
“Decades from now, we might look back and say: this was the moment life beyond Earth came within reach,” Madhusudhan said.
Not Definitive — But Closer Than Ever
While not absolute proof of life, the findings bring scientists closer than ever to answering the age-old question: Are we alone?
A Cautious Approach
“We are being very careful,” Madhusudhan stressed.
“We must question whether the signal is real — and what it really means.”
Some Scientists Urge Skepticism
Other researchers have raised doubts about whether K2-18 b’s conditions are truly life-friendly — and whether DMS and DMDS can reliably be called biosignatures.
Unknown Processes Could Be at Play
“There could be processes we don’t yet understand that produce these molecules,” Madhusudhan admitted — but added, “I don’t think there’s any known non-biological explanation.”
A Milestone in the Search for Life
Whether or not life is confirmed on K2-18 b, the discovery marks a historic step forward in humanity’s quest to understand its place in the universe.
