According to a research published in Astrophysical Magazine, scientists at Cambridge have discovered a biological emissions on a planet called K2–18B that is taking place from bacteria. This planet is located 124 light years away. To analyze the chemical composition of the atmosphere of this planet, scientists took help of James Webb Area Telescope. Scientists say that there may be a strong possibility of life on the K2-18B. However, it is still an early result that does not confirm life on the planet.
How to find exoplanet?
In 1995, for the first time an exoplanet was strongly claimed. This was found to be present near a star like Sun. The planet cannot be seen directly here, but its effect is studied on its nearest star. As the star moves back and forth, there is a slight change in the wavelength of the light coming out of it, which we can measure.
7500 external planets discovered
We already know about about 7,500 such planets. Of these, only 43 have been directly observed. Most of these have been discovered not directly but in Radial Velocity or Transit. In a transit manner, search means that when a planet passes in front of its star, how much it decreases in its light. It stops a small part of light coming from the star.
K2-18B and James Web Telescope
Using the data of the James web telescope, scientists created a graph that shows that dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and dimethyl dyulfide (DMDs) are being emitted on the K2-18B. Some scientists believe that DMS is a biomarker- that is, an element found on earth indicates the presence of life. Although DMS is not only produced by bacteria, it is also found in the comate 67p. It is also found in the gas and dust present between the wires in the space.
Keeping all these aspects in mind, research authors have claimed that such quantity of biomarkers may not be present in comats or space. This is certainly emission of bacteria. There is also a similar biomarker phosphine found in the atmosphere of Venus. Therefore, bacteria may also be present in its clouds.
Cambridge’s study is more intensive and its results are more certain. But it is still not sufficiently strong to assure the academic community, which requires 99.999% certainty. Research authors say that their findings indicate the liquid ocean and hydrogen atmosphere, but others say it may be a genitals made of a gas or a volcanic planet filled with magma.
Cambridge’s study does not offer proof of life but it is a very important step in search of life outside the earth. Study has so far introduced exquisite Najite. Therefore, this study has filled more enthusiasm among scientists to discover alien life outside the Earth.
