jm

‘120 light-years away’: James Webb finds Earth’s alien twin with a twist!

Produced by: Manoj Kumar

BT LOGO
K2-18-b

Cosmic Enigma

A groundbreaking discovery by NASA’s James Webb Telescope reveals K2-18 b, a colossal exoplanet, possibly harboring life-like gases.

K2-18-b

Hycean Hope

K2-18 b, located 120 light-years away, is theorized to be a Hycean world with a hydrogen-rich atmosphere and potential water oceans.

K2-18-b

Living Clues

Methane and carbon dioxide dominate the atmosphere, and hints of dimethyl sulfide (DMS)—a gas tied to life—add intrigue.

Atmospheric Secrets

Advanced spectroscopy from Webb reveals K2-18 b’s chemical makeup, hinting at unique processes.

image
nikku

Scientific Milestone

Lead researcher Nikku Madhusudhan highlights the potential of Hycean worlds, breaking the rocky-planet norm in life-hunting.

Hot Challenges

While K2-18 b’s environment shows promise, its high-pressure icy mantle and potential heat present hurdles for life.

image
Hubble Telescope

Webb’s Leap

Data from two Webb transits equaled eight years of Hubble observations, demonstrating unparalleled sensitivity.

K2-18-b

DMS Mystery

Confirming the presence of DMS would mark a paradigm shift in understanding extraterrestrial life potential.

1oo

Cosmic Roadmap

NASA aims to refine observations, unlocking more secrets of K2-18 b and paving the path toward discovering life beyond Earth.