What is K2-18 b? Know all about the extraterrestrial planet with evidence of alien life

The discovery of the possibility of extraterrestrial life on some giant far-off planet was made by astrophysicists from the University of Cambridge. Their findings have been published in ‘The Astrophysical Journal Letters’. The report states the existence of two molecules in overwhelming quantities compared to their presence on Earth. This could mean a historic moment for the possibility of alien life on a far-off giant planet. 

Evidence of Extraterrestrial Life on a Giant Planet

A representative from the University of Cambridge spoke to the reporters about the astonishing discoveries of extraterrestrial life made by his team. While addressing the reporters, Professor Nikku Madhusudhan from the Institute of Astronomy, a part of the University of Cambridge, stated that the discoveries made by his team about the possibility of alien life on another planet will prove to be revolutionary in the coming time. 

He believes that this discovery showing signs of the existence of alien life on some far-off planet is the most concrete evidence discovered in recent years and not mere speculation. Though he did try to clarify that the team is trying to be cautious in carrying out intense research before making any assured conclusions. 

What is K2-18b? 

K2-18b is a planet that was discovered in the year 2017 by astronomers from Canada. This planet was found to be seven hundred trillion miles away from us, outside our solar system. This is the planet on which certain gases have been found in substantial amounts, which is being considered enough proof of the existence of life in far-off planets like K2-18b.

The scientists from the University of Cambridge have found the presence of one of the two molecules in its atmosphere. The names of the two molecules are dimethyl sulphide (DMS) and dimethyl disulphide (DMDS), respectively. Professor Nikku Madhusudhan states that the extreme amount of gas found in the atmosphere of K2-18b is thousands of times that found on planet Earth. 

How was this discovery made?

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope was used for the discovery of the planet K2-18b. This telescope was launched in December 2021. This powerful telescope provided evidence of chemical footprints of the two molecules. 

The chemical composition of the atmosphere of the planet K2-18b, and the gases found there, can be estimated based on the light that shall pass through the small red Sun that it orbits, such is the power of the James Webb Space Telescope!

Doubts Regarding the Relevance of this Discovery 

The major challenge at present is the question of the origins of this gas in the atmosphere of the planet K2-18b. On Earth, these gases are formed because of microbes and bacteria found in the ocean. There is no definite answer about where this gas originates from in K2-18 b. 

Professor Catherine Heymans from the Edinburgh University stated her doubts about the relevance of the claim of alien life on another planet, simply based on the existence of these gases.