JWST detects potential biosignatures on exoplanet K2‑18b

April 17, 2025, 10:20 am

Recent observations using the James Webb Space Telescope have revealed promising chemical signatures—including dimethyl sulfide—on exoplanet K2‑18b, located approximately 120–124 light‑years from Earth. Researchers suggest that these biosignatures, which are typically associated with biological processes on Earth, may indicate the presence of life-friendly conditions. The findings mark a potential breakthrough in astrobiology, as they represent some of the strongest evidence yet of possible extraterrestrial life, warranting further detailed study.

Bluesky: @arstechnica.com, @wired.com

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cnet.com / Astronomers Report Increased Possibility of Life on Distant K2-18b Planet

With the help of the James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers say they're closer than ever to confirming signs of life on a distant exoplanet.

wired.com / Scientists Find Promising Indication of Extraterrestrial Life—124 Light-Years Away

Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope confirmed the planet K2-18b has traces of dimethyl sulfide, a potential biosignature of marine microorganisms.

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techspot.com / Distant planet shows "strongest evidence yet" of potential extraterrestrial life

A team of Cambridge researchers studying the atmosphere of a planet called K2-18b discovered chemical signatures of dimethyl sulphide (DMS) and dimethyl disulphide (DMDS). The molecules are tied to biological life, produced by marine phytoplankton and bacteria here on Earth.Read Entire Article

cbc.ca / Scientists find strongest evidence yet of life on an alien planet

In a potential landmark discovery, scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope have obtained what they call the strongest signs yet of possible life beyond our solar system, detecting in an alien planet's atmosphere the chemical fingerprints of gases that on Earth are produced only by...

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