JWST detects sulfur-based molecules in K2-18b’s atmosphere: a potential biosignature awaiting confirmation

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Led by Nikku Madhusudhan, JWST detected sulfur-based molecules in the atmosphere of the Hycean exoplanet K2-18b—likely dimethyl sulfide and possibly dimethyl disulfide—hinting at a potential biosignature since Earth life largely produces these compounds, but the signal is only about three-sigma and requires more follow-up to rule out non-biological sources.

Are We Finally Not Alone? Webb Detects Life’s Signature on Distant Ocean Planet
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Are We Finally Not Alone? Webb Detects Life’s Signature on Distant Ocean Planet

Astronomers may have found the strongest hint of life beyond Earth thanks to new data from the James Webb Space Telescope. Theyve detected sulfur-based molecules in the atmosphere of exoplanet K2-18b that, on Earth, are only produced by living organisms. While the evidence isn’t conclusive yet,