Nature Astronomy reports the discovery of potential life on Saturn's moon
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- Nature Astronomy reports the discovery of potential life on Saturn's moon
Saturn's moon Enceladus spews icy particles and gases into space from the subglacial ocean through faults near the south pole. This was reported on October 1 by the journal Nature Astronomy.
During the flyby, the Cassini probe collected samples of ice grains. The analysis showed the presence of oxygen-containing compounds in the fresh particles.
"We have again detected oxygen fragments in these fresh ice grains," the researchers note.
It was also possible to identify new molecular fragments, including aliphatic compounds, esters, and presumably substances containing nitrogen and oxygen.
"The discovered fragments further hint at an organic-rich subsurface surface with a diverse range of reaction pathways that expand both the known and potential chemical space of the Enceladus ocean," the publication says.
Earlier, on September 30, it was reported that the chemical composition of the Earth was formed just 3 million years after the formation of the Solar system, but the planet was initially dry and lifeless. Only a subsequent collision with Thea (a hypothetical planet) probably brought water and other substances necessary for life.
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