Scientists have found signs of life in the atmosphere of exoplanet K2‑18b

Astronomers at the University of Cambridge (USA) have discovered organic compounds in the atmosphere of the exoplanet K2-18b, which are produced exclusively by living organisms on Earth. This was reported on April 17 on the university's portal with reference to a publication in the Astrophysical Journal.

We are talking about dimethyl sulfide and dimethyl disulfide, substances that are produced mainly by marine phytoplankton on Earth.

According to scientists, despite the possibility of their inorganic origin, the revealed concentrations of molecules are the most significant evidence of the potential existence of life outside the Solar system.

"On Earth, these compounds are created exclusively by microbial life. Their detection on K2-18b confirms the hypothesis of the possibility of habitable environments on Hykean—type planets," said Nikku Madhusudhan, professor and member of the research group.

According to scientists, the probability of accidental appearance of these substances in the atmosphere of an exoplanet is only 0.3%. However, for the official recognition of the discovery, the probability level must be below 0.00006%. The researchers emphasize that "cautious optimism" remains for now, and more data will be needed to confirm the findings.

The exoplanet K2-18b is located in the constellation Leo and belongs to the class of Hykean worlds — hot planets covered with oceans and having a hydrogen atmosphere.

On August 13, 2024, it was reported that geophysicists from the University of California (USA) discovered that there is a giant ocean in the lower layers of Mars, which is deeply hidden under the surface of the planet. American experts believe that theoretically the deep waters of Mars can be habitable.